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I 


THE 


MEDICAL  APPLICATION 


ELECTRICITY. 


BY 

WILLIAM  F.  CHANNING,  M.  D. 


SIXTH  AND  ENLARGED  EDITION. 


PUBLISHED  BY  THOMAS  HALL, 

ELECTRICIAN , 

AND  MANUFACTURER  OE  ELECTRO  MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS, 
No.  13  Bromfield  Street, 
BOSTON,  MASS. 

1860. 


Entered  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1849,  by 
DANIEL  DAYIS,  JR., 

In  the  Clerk’s  Office  of  the  District  Court  of  the  District  of  Massachusetts. 


Entered  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1858,  by 
THOMAS  HALL, 

In  the  Clerk’s  Office  of  the  District  Court  of  the  District  of  Massachusetts. 


ELECTROTYPED  AT  THE 
BOSTON  STEREOTYPE  FOUNDRY. 


Wright  & Potter,  Printers, 
4 Spring  Lane. 


This  treatise  is  respectfully  inscribed  to  those  Members 
of  the  Medical  Profession  who  wish  to  avail  themselves  in 
their  practice  of  a principle  of  nature,  which  occupies  a 
central  position,  both  in  regard  to  organized  and  unorgan- 
ized matter,  — which  has  already  accomplished  something 
for  medical  science,  but  which  is  still  undeveloped  in  its 
most  important  relations  to  physiology.  The  only  value 
claimed  for  these  pages  is  in  their  connection  with  present 
experience.  They  are  intended  simply  to  facilitate  the 
application  of  electricity  to  disease  in  the  existing  state  of 
our  knowledge,  and,  if  it  may  be,  to  aid  others,  especially 
American  practitioners,  in  advancing  a high  department 
of  physiological  science. 

The  instruments  here  described,  and  which  this  book  is 
intended  to  accompany,  are  those  prepared  by  Mr.  Thomas 
Hall,  successor  to  Daniel  Davis,  well  known  as  the 
earliest  manufacturer  of  electro-magnetic  apparatus  in  this 
country  ; to  whose  liberality  in  experiment,  and  ingenuity 
in  construction,  the  present  form  of  electro-magnetic  -in- 
struments, of  all  descriptions,  here  and  elsewhere,  is  due, 
probably,  more  than  to  any  other  person. 


C"»o 

s OjLOOi 


io\5 \n 


MEDICAL  APPLICATION 

OF 

ELECTRICI T Y 


The  introduction  of  electricity  into  medical  prac- 
tice has  been  made  the  subject,  within  a few  years, 
of  many  empirical  treatises.  Original  and  valuable 
sources  of  information  have  at  the  same  time  been 
multiplied,  and  the  European  journals,  after  a long 
interval,  are  again  filled  with  cases  of  the  successful 
application  of  this  agent.  Professor  Wisgrill,  in  ad- 
dressing the  Medical  Association  of  Vienna,*  remarks, 
that  a revolution  has  now  taken  place  in  favor  of  elec- 
tricity, which,  after  its  wide  celebrity  at  the  com- 
mencement of  the  present  century,  had  fallen  into  dis- 
use, not  from  the  inefficacy  of  the  means,  but  from  the 
mode  in  which  they  were  employed.  The  object  of 
this  work  is  to  present,  in  a reliable  form,  the  results 
of  experience  in  this  revival  of  electro-medical  appli- 
cation, to  arrive  at  general  principles,  as  far  as  these 
can  be  correctly  deduced,  and  to  place  the  materials 


* Brit,  and  For.  Med.  Bev.  April,  1845. 

i 


2 


MEDICAL  APPLICATION 


of  practice  or  investigation  in  the  hands  of  all  who 
look  with  hope  to  the  development  of  this  principle, 
now  receiving  so  general  attention  abroad,  which  is 
so  fertile  in  its  applications,  so  immediate  and  so  safe 
in  its  operation. 

The  subject  will  be  divided  into  the  following 
heads : I.  Physiological  Relations  of  Electricity. 

II.  Forms  of  Medical  Electricity.  III.  Means  of 
Application  IV.  General  Application  to  Disease. 
V.  Special  Application  to  Disease.  In  treating  the 
last  division,  the  effort  will  be  made  to  give  as  full 
a statement  as  possible  of  applications  heretofore 
attempted,  whether  experimental  in  their  character,  or 
established  as  modes  of  practice.  The  propriety  of 
this  course  will  be  acknowledged  when  it  is  consid- 
ered that  the  use  of  electricity  is  comparatively 
recent ; that  it  is  acquiring  an  important  place  in 
scientific  regard;  and  that  the  extent  of  its  agency, 
standing  alone,  as  it  does,  in  relation  to  vitality,  can 
hardly  be  anticipated. 


OF  ELECTRICITY. 


3 


I.  — PHYSIOLOGICAL  RELATIONS  OF 
ELECTRICITY. 

1.  The  principle  of  vitality,  in  its  highest  rela- 
tions, has  hitherto  escaped  analysis.  All  its  func- 
tions, however,  in  the  animal  system,  are  performed 
through  the  intervention  of  physical  agents,  and  in 
strict  accordance  with  the  laws  of  chemical  affinity 
and  material  force.  Thus,  though  Life  stands  alone 
as  an  immaterial  and  an  organic  principle,  it  has 
also,  distinctly,  a material  side  and  relations  in  which 
it  must  be  studied  like  any  other  branch  of  natural 
philosophy.  The  physical  agents  by  which  the 
animal  organization  accomplishes  its  results  are  of 
two  kinds:  first,  principles  and  affinities  which  are 
common  also  to  unorganized  matter ; second,  a force 
which  is  peculiar  to  living  structures  — the  special 
agent  or  material  principle  of  vitality.  This  is 
manifested  in  two  distinct  forms  — in  the  nervous 
system,  and  in  the  life  of  the  tissues.  In  the  former, 
its  action  may  be  spoken  of  as  between  organized 
masses;  in  the  latter,  between  organized  atoms.  In 
both  cases  it  is  associated  with  a physical  organization, 
and  reacts  with  other  physical  agents.  Its  precic  con- 
nection with  these  will  now  be  more  especially  con- 
sidered. The  following  extract  from  Faraday,  on  tt^e 
nature  of  the  nervous  influence,  treated  in  connection 


4 


PHYSIOLOGICAL  RELATIONS 


with  the  electrical  endowments  of  the  gymnotus,* 
will  serve  as  a fitting  introduction  to  this  subject. 

2.  “ The  anatomical  relation  of  the  nervous  sys- 
tem to  the  electric  organs ; the  evident  exhaustion  of 
the  nervous  energy  during  the  production  of  electri- 
city in  that  organ ; the  apparently  equivalent  produc- 
tion of  electricity,  in  proportion  to  the  quantity  of  the 
nervous  force  consumed  ; the  constant  direction  of 
the  current  produced,  with  its  relation  to  what  we 
may  believe  to  be  an  equally  constant  direction  of  the 
nervous  energy  thrown  into  action  a1>  the  same  time  — 
all  induce  me  to  believe  that  it  is  not  impossible  but 
that,  on  passing  electricity  per  force  through  the 
organ,  a reaction  back  upon  the  nervous  system  be- 
longing to  it  might  take  place,  and  that  a restoration, 
to  a greater  or  smaller  degree,  of  that  which  the  ani- 
mal expends  in  the  act  of  exciting  a current,  might, 

perhaps,  be  effected So,  perhaps,  in  these 

organs,  where  nature  has  provided  the  apparatus  by 
means  of  which  the  animal  can  exert  and  convert 
nervous  into  electric  force,  we  may  be  able,  possess- 
ing, in  that  point  of  view,  a power  far  beyond  that  of 
the  fish  itself,  to  reconvert  the  electric  into  the  ner- 
vous force. 

3.  “ With  respect  to  the  nature  of  nervous  power, 
that  exertion  of  it  which  is  conveyed  along  the 
nerves  to  the  various  organs  which  they  excite  into 
action,  is  not  the  direct  principle  of  life  ; and  there- 
fore I see  no  natural  reason  why  we  should  not  be 


% 


Experimental  Researches.  Series  XV.  Nov.  1838. 


OF  ELECTRICITY. 


5 


allowed,  in  certain  cases,  to  determine,  as  well  as  to 
observe  its  course.  Many  philosophers  think  the 
power  is  electricity.  Priestley  put  forth  this  view  in 
1774,  in  a very  striking  and  distinct  form,  both  as 
regards  ordinary  animals  and  those  which  are  elec- 
tric, like  the  torpedo.  Dr.  Wilson  Philip  considers 
that  the  agent  is  electricity  modified  by  vital  ac- 
tion.* . . . Now,  though  I am  not  as  yet  convinced 
by  the  facts,  that  the  nervous  fluid  is  only  electricity, 
still  I think  that  the  agent  in  the  nervous  sys- 
tem may  be  an  inorganic  force ; and,  if  there  be  rea- 
son for  supposing  that  magnetism  is  a higher  relation 
of  force  than  electricity,  so  it  may  well  be  imagined 
that  the  nervous  power  may  be  of  a still  more  exalt- 
ed character,  and  yet  within  the  reach  of  experi- 
ment.” 

4.  The  physical  agent  residing  in  the  nervous 
system,  and  also  in  the  tissues,  bears  a remarkable 
analogy  to  electricity  in  its  three  principal  character- 
istics, — the  exertion  of  attractive  force,  the  control  of 
chemical  affinity,  and  the  rapid  transmission  of  im- 
pulses. It  will  be  observed  that  these  analogies  are 
much  more  striking  and  fundamental  than  any  offered 
by  magnetism  or  chemical  affinity,  where  electricity 

* “ Dr.  Wilson  Philip  is  of  opinion  that  the  nerves  which  excite 
the  muscles  and  effect  the  chemical  changes  of  the  vital  functions, 
operate  by  the  electric  power  supplied  by  the  brain  and  spinal  mar- 
row, in  its  effects  modified  by  the  vital  powers  of  the  living  animal, 
because  he  found,  as  he  informed  me,  as  early  as  1815,  that  while 
the  vital  powers  remain,  all  these  functions  can  be  as  well  performed 
by  voltaic  electricity,  after  the  removal  of  the  nervous  influence, 
as  by  that  influence  itself.” 

I* 


6 


PHYSIOLOGICAL  RELATIONS 


exists  in  other  and  undisputed  combinations  with 
matter.  The  impulses  connected  with  volition  and 
sensation  are  propagated  along  the  nervous  cords  with 
the  same  dependence  on  the  integrity  of  conductors 
as  in  the  case  of  galvanism,  though  with  a modified 
law  of  conduction.  The  chemical  changes  effected 
by  vital  force  take  place  under  an  affinity  like  that  in 
nature,  alone  supplied  by  electricity.  We  not  only 
find  this  exerted  by  the  ultimate  particles  of  the  tis- 
sues, but  we  have  an  example  of  the  polar  decom- 
position of  common  salt  (chloride  of  sodium)  taking 
place  between  the  secreting  organs  of  the  stomach 
and  liver,  muriatic  acid  appearing  at  the  one,  and 
soda  at  the  other,  in  the  course  of  their  natural  func- 
tions. This  correlation  of  electro-chemical  pow- 
ers in  different  organs  is  evidently  due,  not  to  the 
vital  force  in  the  tissues  of  those  organs,  but  to  the 
agency  of  the  nerves,  supplying  them,  and  uniting 
their  functions.  The  vital  force,  therefore,  in  both 
its  manifestations  of  the  nervous  system  and  of  the 
living  tissues,  modifies  existing  electro-chemical  af- 
finities as  by  the  power  of  electricity  itself. 

5.  The  attractive  force,  developed  in  muscular  and 
other  living  tissues,  producing  the  effect  of  motion, 
bears  a close  analogy  to  the  attractive  force  so  sud- 
denly communicated  to,  and  withdrawn  from,  the 
particles  of  magnetizable  bodies  by  electricity.  The 
mode  of  production,  however,  of  this  force  in  the 
muscular  fibres,  which  has  been  so  recently  and  so 
ably  discussed  b}^  Liebig,  furnishes  the  final  and  most 
conclusive  analogy  between  the  agents  under  consid- 


OF  ELECTRICITY. 


oration.  This  is  concisely  presented  in  the  fi  hew- 
ing statement  by  Carpenter. 

6.  “ A great  variety  of  evidence  has  been  for  some 
time  conducting  physiologists  to  the  opinion  that 
every  act  of  muscular  contraction  necessarily  involves 
the  death  and  disintegration  of  a certain  amount 
of  muscular  tissue,  and  it  has  recently  been  argued 
by  Liebig,  that  this  disintegration,  resulting  from  the 
action  of  oxygen  upon  the  elements  of  which  the 
tissue  is  composed,  is  the  real  source  of  the  mechan- 
ical power;  by  setting  at  liberty  (so  to  speak)  the 
vital  force,  which  was  previously  employed  in  a 
latent  manner  in  holding  together  the  components 
of  the  structure.  Certain  it  is  that  the  amount  of 
muscular  power  exercised  by  an  animal,  bears  a very 
close  resemblance  (other  things  being  equal)  on  the 
one  hand,  to  the  measure  of  oxygen  introduced  into 
the  system  by  the  lungs,  and  on  the  other  to  the 
amount  of  those  excretions  which  seem  especially 
produced  by  this  metamorphosis.  . . . This  doc- 
trine may  probably  be  extended  from  the  muscular 
system,  in  regard  to  which  alone  it  has  been  urged  by 
Liebig,  to  the  nervous,  as  well  as  to  the  various  or- 
gans of  nutrition.  Many  circumstances  lead  to  the 
belief  that  the  nervous  tissue,  when  in  a state  of 
functional  activity,  undergoes  a rapid  waste  or  disin- 
tegration, and  a corresponding  renewal.”  * 

7.  Not  only  then  the  exertion  of  muscular  power, 
but  every  exertion  of  vital  power,  follows  the  law  of 
elimination  of  material  forces,  the  development  of 


* Human  Physiology,  §§  377  and  77. 


8 


PHYSIOLOGICAL  RELATIONS 


which,  from  latent  conditions,  is  inseparably  attended 
by  a change  of  form  in  the  associated  matter.  An 
illustration  of  this  principle,  and  of  the # particular 
development  of  muscular  energy,  may  be  found  in 
Smee’s  battery,  described  hereafter,  (§17,)  where  the 
chemical  affinities  are  present,  but  held  in  abeyance 
till  the  circuit  is  closed,  when  oxidation  and  the 
electrical  discharge  take  place.  In  the  case  of  mus- 
cular contraction,  according  to  Liebig,  the  blood, 
replete  with  oxygen,  is  present  in  the  muscle,  but 
remains  ineffective  until  the  volition,  or  nervous 
communication,  as  it  were,  closes  the  circuit,  permits 
oxidation,  and  eliminates  the  attractive  force;  or,  in  a 
different  form  of  the  same  theory,  discharges  the 
agent  previously  existing  as  a repulsive  force  between 
the  .atoms.  It  will  be  remembered  that  the  contrac- 
tile power  of  the  muscular  tissue  depends  upon  the 
arterial  condition  of  the  blood. 

8.  It  has  thus  been  shown  that  electricity  is  char- 
acterized by  its  ready  assumption  of  peculiar  forms, 
in  association  with  matter,  and  by  a class  of  widely 
different  properties ; and  it  has  also  been  found  that 
the  vital  force  is  characterized  by  this  same  series  of 
remarkable  properties  and  energies.  This  identity 
of  action  would  make  the  conclusion  not  unphilo- 
sophical,  that  these  principles  were  fundamentally  the 
same.  This  conclusion,  however,  is  not  an  essential 
one  to  our  subject,  and,  as  recently  shown  by  Mat- 
teucci,  is  unsubstantiated  by  any  positive  evidence. 
The  analogy  which  has  been  pointed  out  has  its 
important  applications  ; but,  beyond  this,  even  if  the 


OF  ELECTRICITY. 


9 


vital  force  should  be  a form  of  electricity,  we  are  at 
present  wholly  ignorant  of  the  nature  of  its  modifica- 
tion, and  any  control  whfch  we  may  succeed  in 
exercising  over  it  must  still  be  the  work  of  experi- 
ment. 

9.  After  what  has  been  said  of  the  relation  of  these 
principles,  it  will  be  readily  conceived  that  electricity 
has  a positive  reaction  upon  the  vital  force ; and  in 
this  fact  comists  its  medical  application.  Wilson 
Philip  states,  “ We  have  seen  that  galvanism  is  capa- 
ble of  performing  all  the  functions  of  the  nervous 
power,  properly  so  called. ” * That  is  to  say,  galvan- 
ism can  stimulate  the  muscular  movements  of  animal 
and  organic  life,  promote  secretion  and  absorption  in 
the  proper  organs,  affect  nutrition,  and  influence  the 
capillary  circulation,  besides  exciting  all  other  func- 
tions to  the  full  extent  of  their  dependence  on  the 
nervous  system.  The  same  writer  supplies  the  fol- 
lowing illustration,  in  his  remarks  on  the  application 
of  galvanism  to  the  digestive  organs  and  liver  : “ I 

have  repeatedly  seen  from  it  the  same  effect  on  the 
biliary  system  which  arises  from  calomel ; a copious  bil- 
ious discharge  from  the  bowels  coming  on  a few  hours 
after  its  employment.”  Another  remarkable  illustration 
of  functional  excitement,  by  galvanism,  is  furnished 
by  the  nerves  of  special  sensation.  If  a current  be 
sent  in  the  course  of  the  nerves  connected  with  vis- 
ion, hearing,  or  taste,  these  sensations  are  strongly 
excited  ; a flash  of  light,  a noise,  or  a metallic 
flavor,  r at  once  perceived.  The  impulses  of  special 


* Vital  Functions. 


10 


PHYSIOLOGICAL  RELATIONS 


sensation  in  the  appropriate  nerves  are  thus  imitated, 
or  excited,  by  the  electric  current,  the  impression 
varying  in  tone  with  the  , nature  of  the  current,  and 
receiving  its  character,  as  a sensation,  from  the  organ 
to  which  it  is  conveyed. 

10.  A more  precise  view  of  the  relations  of  elec- 
tricity to  the  nervous  system  is  furnished  by  Matteucci, 
in  the  following  comparative  statement.*  He  ob- 
serves, that  electricity  differs  from  any  other  nervous 
stimulant,  1st,  in  that  it  excites  sensation  at  onetime, 
and  contraction  at  another,  according  to  the  direction 
in  which  it  traverses  a nerve  ; 2d,  in  that  it  does  not 
excite  a nerve  when  passing  through  it  transversely  ; 
3d,  in  that  neither  contraction  nor  sensation  are  pro- 
duced when  its  influence  upon  a nerve  is  prolonged ; 
4th,  in  that  it  alone  has  the  property  of  increasing  or 
diminishing  the  excitability  of  a nerve  according  to 
the  direction  in  which  it  is  made  to  flow  ; 5th,  in  that 
it  has  the  power  of  awakening  the  excitability  of  a 
nerve  after  all  other  stimulants  have  ceased  to  act. 
Beyond  this,  however,  as  might  be  anticipated,  elec- 
tricity reacts  with  the  vital  agent  of  the  tissues,  as 
well  as  of  the  nervous  system.  Thus,  when  a gal- 
vanic current  is  sent  through  a limb,  in  the  opposite 
direction  to  the  motor  nervous  current,  a muscular 
contraction  takes  place,  which  Marianini  has  called 
idiopathic , or  the  result  of  the  immediate  stimulus  of 
galvanism  on  the  muscular  tissue ; but,  when  the 
current  is  sent  in  the  direction  of  the  ramification  of 
the  nerves,  a stronger,  or  sympathic  contraction  takes 


* London  Lancet.  September  184  7. 


OF  ELECTRICITY". 


11 


place,  which  is  the  product  of  both  the  electric  and 
nervous  stimulus.  Thus,  when  the  nerve  of  a frog  is 
exposed,  contractions  of  the  muscles  supplied  by  it, 
are  only  produced  when  the  current  flows  through  the 
nerve  in  the  direction  of  its  ramifications : but  they 
are  produced  in  a muscle,  in  whatever  direction  the 
current  flows  through  its  tissue.*  The  production 
of  the  bilious  secretion,  in  the  experiment  already 
quoted  from  Wilson  Philip,  is  more  properly,  perhaps, 
an  example  of  the  influence  of  electricity  immedi- 
ately on  a secreting  organ.  It  will  be  found,  indeed, 
hereafter,  that  the  organs  of  secretion  are,  in  many 
cases,  excited  by  the  immediate  application  of  elec- 
tricity to  their  tissues,  without  the  intermediate 
stimulus  of  the  nerves  supplying  them.  Thus,  in 
the  whole  action  of  vitalized  particles,  in  the  se- 
creting tissues,  in  the  capillaries  where  the  process 
of  nutrition  goes  on,  in  the  blood  itself,  a new 
influence  and  new  affinities  are  introduced  with  the 
electric  agency.  The  property  of  electricity  alluded 
to  by  Muller,  and  on  which  one  of  its  surgical  appli- 
cations is  founded, — that  of  coagulating  the  blood, — 
is  a significant  one  in  this  connection. 

11.  In  addition  to  the  vital  agencies  employed  in 
the  system,  it  is  worthy  of  remark,  that  there  are 
constant  electric  currents  necessarily  taking  place,  or 
tending  to  take  place,  between  organs  differing  in 
chemical  constitution  and  in  temperature.  These 
currents,  between  the  superficial  and  deep-seated 
muscles  and  local  currents  elsewhere,  have  been 

* Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  April,  1830. — Braithe waite’s  Retrospect,  No.  XV. 


12 


FORMS  OF  ELECTRICITY. 


observed;  and  are  now  admitted  facts  in  physiology. 
They  cannot  but  exercise  an  important  function  in 
the  stimulation  of  the  system.  In  the  organs  of 
secretion,  where  different  fluids  are  separated  from 
each  other  by  a membrane,  all  the  elements  of  a 
galvanic  current,  of  some  energy,  are  present ; and 
this  must  necessarily  modify  the  nature  of  the 
secretion,  or  react  distinctly  with  the  controlling 
vital  force.  These  considerations  are  adduced  as 
showing  the  extent  of  the  relations  of  electricity  to 
life,  and  the  rational  ground  which  exists  for  its 
application  to  disease. 


II.  — FORMS  OF  MEDICAL  ELECTRICITY. 

12.  Currents  of  electricity  are  to  be  considered 
chiefly  in  relation  to  their  quantity  and  intensity,  — two 
elements  which  may  be  associated  in  infinitely  vari- 
able proportions.  Thus  the  electricity  from  the 
electrical  machine  has  extreme  tension,  but  almost 
inappreciable  quantity,  while  the  electricity  from  a 
single  galvanic  pair  has  great  quantity,  but  so  little 
intensity  that  it  will  hardly  pass  to  an  appreciable 
extent  through  the  animal  system  interposed  in  its 
circuit.  Between  these  extremes,  currents  can  be 
obtained,  in  which  the  quantity  and  intensity  exist  in 
any  desired  proportion.  These  properties  have  dif- 
ferent physiological  effects,  and  this,  therefore,  is  one 
of  the  conditions  to  be  attended  to  in  the  construction 
*nd  use  of  apparatus.  Currents  also  may  be  contin- 


THE  ELECTRICAL  MACHINE.  13 

uous,  or  consist  of  intermittent  shocks,  of  greater  or 
less  rapidity.  This  modulation  also  exerts  an  im- 
portant physiological  influence,  and  must  be  provided 
for  in  the  construction  of  instruments.  The  current 
of  the  galvanic  battery,  and  induced  electrical  cur- 
rents, do  not  consist  of  free  electricity,  but  electricity 
modified  in  its  action  by  intimate  association  with 
the  matter,  organized  or  unorganized,  which  it  is 
made  to  traverse.  This  gives  it,  in  many  respects, 
apparently  a greater  physiological  efficiency  than  the 
same  quantity  of  electricity  derived  from  the  ma- 
chine. 

13.  The  common  electrical  machine  has  been  very 
nearly  dismissed  from  medical  practice,  on  the  ground 
of  the  deficiency  of  its  product  and  the  disproportion 
between  its  quantity  and  intensity;  the  former,  its 
quantity,  being  sufficient  only  to  produce  compar- 
atively slight  vital  changes,  while  the  latter,  especially 
when  accumulated  in  the  Leyden  jar,  is  almost  disor- 
ganizing in  its  energy.  The  great  success,  however, 
which  has  attended  its  use  in  Guy’s  Hospital,  in  the 
hands  of  Dr.  Golding  Bird,  in  cases  of  chorea  and 
amenorrhoea,  will  not  now,  with  propriety,  allow  it  to 
be  thus  summarily  disposed  of.  In  some  diseases,  in 
which  the  nervous  system  is  chiefly  at  fault,  machine 
electricity  has  peculiar  applications,  which  should 
not  be  overlooked  among  the  numerous,  and  often 
more  efficient  forms  in  which  this  agent  may  be  em- 
ployed. The  first  mode  of  application  of  machine 
electricity  is  by  electrifying  the  patient  while  seated 
on  the  insulating  stool,  and  allowing  a silent  and  insen- 


14 


FORMS  OF  ELECTRICITY. 


sible  discharge,  which,  in  the  dark,  is  luminous  at 
prominent  points,  to  take  place  from  the  surface  of 
the  body  to  the  surrounding  air.  Of  this,  Dr.  Bird 
holds  the  following  language:  “ During  this  dis- 

charge, heat  is  evolved,  the  circulation  becomes 
quickened,  the  secretions  generally  become  more 
active,  and  perspiration  breaks  out.  A person  thus 
situated  is  said  to  be  in  an  electric  bath  ; and  it  is  by 
no  means  improbable  that  this  might  be  frequently 
employed  with  advantage  in  certain  affections  in 
which  the  functions  of  the  skin  and  nervous  mem- 
branes are  deficient. ??  * To  concentrate  this  dis- 

charge upon  a single  point,  as  upon  the  eye,  or  the 
surface  of  an  ulcer,  a pointed  conductor,  connected 
with  the  rubber  of  the  machine,  may  be  held  a short 
distance  from  the  organ,  or  spot  to  be  influenced. 
The  second  mode  of  application  is  by  drawing  sparks 
from  the  person  so  situated,  by  means  of  a knob 
attached  to  a rod,  and  connected,  as  before,  with  the 
chain  from  the  rubber.  Dr.  Bird  was  accustomed,  in 
this  way,  to  draw  sparks  from  the  spine  of  a patient 
until  a papular  eruption  was  ^produced,  which  he 
considered  as  aiding  in  the  effect.  At  the  moment 
preceding  the  passage  of  the  spark,  a powerful  con- 
centration of  electricity  takes  place  on  the  part,  and 
to  this  may  be  ascribed  its  efficiency.  The  third 
application  is  that  of  the  shock  which  is  made  by 
means  of  -the  graduated  jar.  In  this,  the  conductors 
are  placed  in  contact  with  the  body,  and  the  discharge 


Guy’s  Hosp.  Reports.  April,  1841 


THE  GALVANIC  BATTERY. 


15 


takes  place  between  two  balls,  attached  to  the  jar, 
whose  distance  from  each  other,  upon  which  the 
strength  of  the  shock  depends,  can  readily  be  adjusted. 
The  shock,  unlike  that  of  the  battery,  or  electro- 
magnetic apparatus,  is  almost  necessarily  painful,  and 
will  not  often  be  resorted  to.  It  has  proved  efficient 
from  its  very  intensity,  in  suspended  animation,  and 
also  by  its  passage  across  the  pelvis  in  amenorrhoea. 

14.  The  most  powerful  electrical  agency  which 
can  be  brought  to  bear  upon  the  human  system,  is, 
undoubtedly,  the  direct  current  of  the  galvanic  bat- 
tery, in  which  the  quantity  is  proportioned  to  the 
size  of  the  plates,  and  the  intensity  to  the  number 
employed.  In  hospitals  and  large  establishments  the 
battery  should  always  have  a place,  as  the  full  power 
of  electricity,  in  producing  any  physiological  change, 
cannot  be  tried  without  it.  The  primary,  uniform 
current  of  the  battery  is,  upon  the  whole,  less  of  & 
mere  stimulant,  more  of  a re-agent  with  the  vita] 
powers  and  living  tissues,  than  any  substit  ute  tha< 
can  be  offered  for  it. 

15.  The  electro-magnetic  apparatus,  which  has 
almost  superseded  the  battery,  is  generally  sufficient 
in  those  cases  where  stimulation  of  the  nervous 
function  is  the  object  to  be  attained.  The  in- 
fluence of  the  nervous  system  has  been  extended 
by  recent  observations  in  physiology  so  as  to  em- 
brace even  processes  which  seem  to  have  the  least 
relation  to  vitality.  Vital  changes  can  therefore  be 
effected  by  the  practitioner,  in  a large  class  of  cases, 
by  cooperating  with  the  nervous  power.  But  beyond 


16 


FORMS  OF  ELECTRICITY. 


this,  the  life  of  the  tissues  remains,  involving  chem- 
ical changes,  and  the  exertion  of  organizing  power, 
which,  like  all  other  physical  agencies,  requires,  for 
reaction,  a definite  quantity  of  electricity.  This  is  a 
simple  application  of  the  law  of  electro-chemical 
equivalents  to  physiology.  To  act,  therefore,  directly 
upon  secreting  organs,  to  affect  the  vital  condition 
of  the  blood,  to  influence  nutrition  at  its  source,  to 
produce  structural  change,  in  the  nerve-centres  and 
fibres  themselves,  as  well  as  elsewhere,  in  fine,  to 
act  directly  upon  the  life  of  the  organized  atoms,  a 
relation  is  needed  between  the  “ quantity”  of  the 
electricity  employed,  and  the  effect  to  be  produced. 
In  such  cases,  where  something  more  is  wanted  than 
the  mere  stimulation  of  the  life,  which  is  actually  in 
a part,  by  the  supply  of  artificial  nervous  power,  the 
battery  is  needed. 

16.  Many  of  the  failures  which  have  attended  the 
application  of  electricity,  especially  since  the  intro- 
duction of  the  electro-magnetic  apparatus,  are  to  be 
ascribed  to  the  want  of  a proper  distinction  between 
reaction  with  the  life  of  the  nervous  system,  and 
reaction  with  the  life  of  the  tissues.  Even  in  influ- 
encing the  nervous  system,  the  battery  is,  occasional- 
ly, more  efficient  than  the  electro-magnetic  agency; 
some  cases  of  paralysis,  for  example,  without  struc- 
tural derangement,  yielding  to  the  former  which 
resist  the  latter.  We  have  hence  the  rule,  that 
the  battery  should  be  resorted  to  after  the  trial  of 
electro-magnetism,  before  abandoning  any  case  of 
disease  in  which  electricity  is  known  to  be  beneficial. 


GALVANIC  BATTERY. 


17 


Having  spoken  thus  of  the  superiority  of  the  battery, 
in  many  conditions  of  disease,  it  is  necessary  to 
state  its  disadvantages  to  the  common  practitioner. 
It  is  more  expensive  than  the  electro-magnetic  appara- 
tus. It  is  with  difficulty  portable.  It  requires  frequent 
attention,  and  renewal  of  solutions. 

17.  The  recent  improvements  in  the  battery  have 
done  something  to  remove  these  objections  to  its  use. 
The  figure  represents  a Smee’s  battery,  consisting 


Fig . 1. 


of  twelve  pairs  of  platinum  and  amalgamated  zinc, 
arranged  in  the  same  number  of  heavy  glass  tumblers. 
The  solution  used  to  excite  the  battery  is  sulphuric 
acid,  diluted  with  ten  or  twelve  parts  of  water,  or, 
where  a less  quantity  of  current  is  desired,  with 
twenty  parts  of  water.  The  zinc  plate,  so  long  as  it 
is  well  amalgamated,  is  not  acted  upon  at  all,  except 
when  the  galvanic  circuit  is  complete,  and  the  instru- 
ment in  operation.  It  is,  consequently,  always  ready 
for  use.  For  many  applications,  a series  of  twelve 
pairs,  enclosed  in  a box,  will  be  sufficient ; but  where  an 
intense  current  is  required,  two  or  more  such,  in  con- 
junction, may  be  needed.  The  elements  of  this  bat- 
2 * 


IS 


FORMS  OF  ELECTRICITY, 


tery  are  more  efficient  than  those  generally  referred  to 
in  the  cases  hereafter  recorded  ; and  half  the  number 
will  frequently  produce  an  equal  effect.  The  wires 
conveying  the  electricity  are  connected  by  screw- 
cups  with  the  terminal  plates  of  platinum  and  zinc,  or 
they  may  be  connected  with  a less  number  of  pairs, 
at  pleasure.  The  wire  connected  with  the  platinum 
plate  constitutes  the  positive  oT  delivering  pole  of  the 
battery  ; that  from  the  zinc,  the  negative  pole. 

18.  When  the  battery  current  is  made  to  flow 
through  the  body,  there  is,  at  its  commencement,  a 
greater  or  less  convulsion  of  the  muscles  of  the  part 
interposed,  though  its  continued  passage  may  be 
nearly  insensible.  The  current,  therefore,  frequently 
interrupted,  becomes  a more  powerful  stimulant, 
while  its  capacity  of  effecting  organic  changes  is  to 
the  same  extent  impaired.  The  use  of  the  continuous 
current  of  the  battery,  in  cases  of  irregular  nervous 
action,  and  in  some  surgical  applications,  is  indispen- 
sable. 

19.  The  current  obtained  from  the  electro-magnetic 
apparatus,  to  which  attention  will  now  be  more 
particularly  directed,  is  one  of  high  intensity  and 
small  quantity,  induced  by  another  current,  its  oppo- 
site in  these  respects,  the  product  of  a single  galvanic 
pair.  • The  theory  and  facts  of  electrical  induction 
will  be  found  elsewhere, # but  cannot  here  be  dwelt 
upon.  The  convenience  of  this  form  of  apparatus, 
its  compactness  and  cheapness,  and  its  efficiency  in  a 
large  class  of  cases,  have  introduced  it  into  general 

* Davis’s  Manual  of  Magnetism,  2d  edition 


ELECTRO- MAGNETIC  APPARATUS.  19 

practice  ; but  its  disadvantage  consists  in  the  fact  that 
a large  proportion  of  the  quantity  of  the  battery  has 
to  be  sacrificed  to  obtain  the  requisite  intensity.  The 
current  of  a single  galvanic  pair,  as  already  stated, 
though  large  in  quantity,  is  too  inert  to  pass,  to  a 
sensible  extent,  through  an  indifferent  conductor,  like 
the  human  body,  but  it  may  be  made  to  induce  a 
secondary  current,  less  in  quantity,  but  of  any 
required  intensity. 

20.  The  form  of  the  single  galvanic  pair,  most 
conveniently  used  in  connection  with  the  electro- 
magnetic apparatus,  is  the  cylinder  battery,  a vertical 
section  of  which  is  represented  in  Fig.  2.  C,  C,  is  a 
double  cylinder  of  cop-  Fig . 2. 

per,  with  a bottom  of 
the  same  metal,  which 
answers  the  purpose  of 
a galvanic  plate,  and 
forms  also  the  containing 
vessel,  for  the  exciting 
solution.  There isamov- 
able  cylinder  of  zinc,  Z, 
which  is  to  be  let  down  into  the  solution,  whenever 
the  battery  is  to  be  put  in  action.  It  is,  of  course, 
intermediate  in  size,  as  well  as  in  position,  to  the  two 
copper  cylinders,  and  is  made  to  rest  upon  the  exte- 
rior one,  by  means  of  three  insulating  supports.  The 
exciting  solution  used  is  one  of  sulphate  of  copper, 
(blue  vitriol,)  containing  about  two  ounces  of  the  blue 
vitriol  to  a pint  of  water.  The  copper  in  the  solution 
is  deposited  while  the  battery  is  in  action,  so  that  it 


20 


FORMS  OF  ELECTRICITY 


is  necessary,  occasionally,  to  add  more  of  the  blue 
vitriol  to  the  solution,  or  to  renew  it.  The  solution 
nay  conveniently  remain  in  the  copper  vessel,  while 
the  battery  is  out  of  action.  The  zinc  plate  becomes 
coated  in  the  battery,  so  that  it  is  necessary  to  clean 
it,  after  using  it,  with  the  wire  brush,  whenever  the 
metal  has  become  thickly  furred.  The  coating 
should  be  removed,  so  as  to  expose  again  the  bright 
surface  of  the  zinc.  When  the  plate  is  only  tar- 
nished, or  slightly  coated,  it  will  be  found  difficult  to 
effect  the  removal  of  the  deposit,  and  it  may  be 
allowed  to  remain,  without  cleaning,  until  further 
use.  The  wires  which  convey  the  current  to  the 
electro-magnetic  apparatus,  are  connected,  by  means 
of  the  screw-cups,  P and  N,  respectively,  with  the 
copper  and  zinc  plates. 

21.  From  the  battery,  we  pass  to  the  electro- 
magnetic apparatus,  which  is  shown  in  connection 


Fig.  3. 


with  the  battery  in  Fig.  3.  It  consists,  in  its 
simplest  form,  of  two  concentric  helices  of  wire,  and 
in  the  axis  of  both,  a rod  of  soft  iron,  or  a number 
of  iron  wires.  The  current  from  the  battery  passes 


ELECTRO-MAGNETIC  APPARATUS.  21 


through  the  inner  helix,  which  is  of  coarse,  insulated 
copper  wire ; and  by  so  doing,  it  magnetizes  the  iron 
rod  or  wires  in  the  centre. 

22.  When  this  current  is  interrupted  by  breaking 
the  circuit,  and  the  rod  or  wires  within  lose  their 
magnetism,  a momentary  reactive  current  is  excited 
in  the  outer  helix,  which  is  of  fine  wire,  and  wholly 
distinct  from  the  inner.  This  current  possesses  the 
intensity  requisite  for  medical  application.  The 
condition  of  its  existence  is  the  interruption  of  the 
primary  current.  An  important  object  of  the  appara- 
tus, therefore,  is  to  provide  means  for  breaking  and 
renewing  the  battery  circuit,  with  whatever  rapidity 
may  be  required.  When  the  battery  circuit  is  broken 
slowly,  the  secondary  current  has  the  effect,  of  distinct 
shocks,  or  convulsions  of  the  system.  When  the 
battery  current,  on  the  other  hand,  is  broken  with 
extreme  rapidity,  the  separate  impulses  almost  cease 
to  be  distinguished,  and  tonic  contractions  of  the 
muscles  are  produced,  resembling,  to  some  extent, 
those  from  the  uninterrupted  current  of  an  intense 
galvanic  battery.  Slow,  powerful  shocks,  however, 
are  often  less  painful,  and  sometimes  more  efficient, 
than  a weaker  and  more  rapid  succession. 

23.  Two  methods  of  breaking  the  battery  circuit 
are  provided  in  the  instrument.  The  first  is  by 
removing*  one  of  the  battery  wires  from  the  screw- 
cup,  in  wnich  it  is  inserted,  on  the  base-board  of  the 
electro-magnetic  apparatus,  and  drawing  it  over  the 
rasp,  or  break-piece,  which  is  seen  attached  to  the 
top  of  the  double  helix.  As  the  wire  leaps  from 


22 


FORMS  OF  ELECTRICITY 


tooth  to  tooth  of  the  rasp,  the  battery  circuit  is  each 
time  renewed  and  broken  ; and  when  the  bundle  of 
iron  wires  occupy  their  place  in  the  centre  of  the 
helix,  vivid  scintillations  occur,  at  the  moment  of 
interruption,  and  powerful  shocks  are  obtained  from 
the  handles  which  are  seen  in  the  figure,  connected 
with  the  cups  of  the  fine-wire  helix.  It  will  readily 
be  found,  by  experiment,  from  which  screw-cup  it  is 
necessary  to  withdraw  the  battery  wire,  to  obtain  the 
shocks  and  scintillations.  On  account  of  the  con- 
nections of  the  machine,  it  is  the  wire  only  from 
one  screw-cup,  which  will  produce  the  result. 
It  will  be  observed  that  the  screw-cups  with  which 
the  battery  wires  are  connected,  an  made,  for  the 
sake  of  distinction,  higher,  and  with  larger  head, 
than  those  with  which  the  handles  are  connect- 
ed. The  wires,  or  poles , as  they  are  often  called, 
connecting  the  battery  with  tne  electro-magnetic 
apparatus,  are  of  necessity  larger  than  those  con- 
necting the  electro-magnetic  apparatus  with  the 
handles,  because  they  convey  a less  intense  current. 
This  should  be  remembered  in  making  the  connec- 
tions, when  the  wires  furnished  with  the  instrument 
are  of  different  sizes. 

24.  The  second  method  of  breaking  the  circuit  is 
the  one  of  chief  importance.  This  is  effected  by  the 
vibration  of  a little  armature,  or  piece  of  iron,  which 
is  seen  supported  by  a slender  spring,  over  the  poles 
of  the  electro-magnet,  M.  When  the  two  wires 
from  the  battery  are  inserted  in  their  screw-cups,  on 
the  board,  the  electro-magnet,  M,  attracts  the  armature 


ELECTRO- MAGNETIC  A P P 


,'tus.  23 


down  to  itself,  and,  in  so  doing,  a little  platinum  sur- 
face on  the  spring  is  separated  from  the  platinum  point 
of  the  thumb-screw  immediately  above  it,  and  the 
battery  current,  which  is  made  to  traverse  these, 
is  consequently  interrupted.  The  electro-magnet 
instantly  loses  its  attractive  power,  and  the  elasticity 
of  the  spring  carries  it  back  again  to  renew  the 
contact,  as  before.  The  rapidity  of  vibration  is  con- 
trolled at  pleasure,  by  the  thumb-screw  to  which  the 
platinum  point  is  attached,  and  which  is  thus  made  to 
bear,  more  or  less  lightly,  on  the  spring.  The  vibra- 
tions may  be  made  to  amount  to  several  thousand  a 
minute,  and  are  then  attended  with  a humming  or 
musical  sound. 

25.  The  bundle  of  iron  wires  in  the  centre  of  the 
helix  have  been  referred  to,  and  will  be  seen  at  W, 
in  the  figure.  The  induced  current,  in  the  outer  coil, 
results  in  part,  or  indeed  chiefly,  from  the  change  in 
the  magnetic  state  of  these  wires.  It  therefore 
follows  that,  by  withdrawing  the  bundle  of  wires 
partially  from  the  helix,  or  by  withdrawing  a part  of 
them  wholly  from  the  helix,  the  shock  may  be  grad- 
uated at  pleasure,  from  one  entirely  insensible,  to  one 
insupportable  to  most  nerves.  This  is  another  very 
important  provision  of  the  apparatus,  without  which 
it  would  be  impossible  to  apply  it  in  a manner  at 
once  safe  and  agreeable  to  the  great  variety  of 
diseased  conditions. 

26.  A compact  form  of  medical  electro-magnetic 
apparatus  is  exhibited  in  Fig.  4,  in  which  the  battery 
and  helices  are  arranged  in  a small  box.  When  the 


24 


FORMS  OF  ELECTRICITY 


instrument  is  transported,  the  solution  must  either  be 
carried  in  another  vessel,  or  prepared  at  the  time  of 
use  by  dissolving  the  sulphate  of  copper. 


Fig.  4. 


27.  The  relative  quantity  and  intensity  of  an 
induced  current  remains  always  the  same  from  the 
same  coil.  As  the  intensity  of  the  shock  diminishes 
by  removing  the  wires,  the  quantity  diminishes  also. 
To  obtain,  therefore,  a current  of  very  considerable 
quantity  and  low  intensity,  it  is  necessary  to  resort 
to  the  battery.  A slight  modulation,  in  this  respect, 
can  be  exerted,  however,  in  the  construction  of  the 
electro-magnetic  coil,  by  employing  a secondary 
helix,  of  coarser  wire,  and  of  copper,  which  is  a better 
conducting  material  than  the  iron  wire  generally 
employed.  Where,  however,  mere  nervous  stimula- 
tion is  required, — the  principal  object  of  the  electro- 
magnetic apparatus,  — the  ordinary  form  will  answer 
almost  equally  well.  It  may  be  observed  here,  in 
connection  with  the  use  of  the  quantity  current,  that 
the  muscular  disturbance  and  agitation,  produced  by 


ELECTRO- MAGNETIC  APPARATUS.  25 


electricity,  depend  chiefly  upon  its  intensity,  and 
the  interruption  of  the  current,  and  that  a much 
larger  quantity  of  electricity,  of  low  intensity,  from 
the  battery,  may  be  conveyed  through  the  system,  to 
cooperate  with  vital  action,  with  hardly  any  sensible 
excitement. 

28.  It  must  be  acknowledged,  however,  still 
further,  that  the  quantity  of  the  induced  current, 
passing  through  the  body,  is,  under  all  circumstances, 
exceedingly  small.  I do  not  know  that  this  has 
heretofore  been  made  the  subject  of  experiment. 
There  has,  at  any  rate,  been  some  misapprehension 
on  this  point,  even  on  the  part  of  so  distinguished  an 
electrician  as  Dr.  Golding  Bird,  who  recommends  the 
electro-magnetic  apparatus  as  furnishing  a current 
in  some  sort  equivalent  in  quantity  to  that  from  the 
battery.*  The  wave  of  the  induced  current  encoun- 
ters great  retardation,  from  passing  through  an 
imperfect  conductor;  and  however  great  its  quantity 
may  be,  when  conveyed  by  a wire  to  the  galvanom- 
eter, its  effect  is  inappreciable  by  this  test,  when 
passed  through  the  body.  Thus  the  galvanometer 
needle  was  deflected  24°,  in  one  instance,  by  the 
secondary  current ; but  the  body  being  interposed  in 
the  circuit,  no  motion  could  be  perceived  in  the  nee- 
dle, observed  by  a microscope,  although  the  shock  was 
powerfully  felt.  On  employing  a delicate  decompos- 
ing apparatus,  a single  wave  of  the  induced  current 
gave  a bulky  precipitate  of  iodide  of  starch,  adhering 


* Guy’s  Hospital  Reports,  April,  1841. 

3 


26 


FORMS  OF  ELECTRICITY. 


to  the  little  platinum  discs  of  the  instrument ; but,  when 
passed  through  the  body,  it  required  fifteen  shocks, 
as  strong  as  could  be  borne,  to  discolor  one  of  the 
discs  as  much  as  the  electricity  generated  by  thirteen 
turns  of  a small  plate  machine,  being  the  amount 
required  to  charge  a quart  Leyden  jar  of  sixty-five 
inches  coated  surface.  Here  is  a comparison  by 
which  the  quantity  of  the  induced  current,  passing 
through  the  body,  is  made  actually  less  than  that 
from  the  common  electrical  machine.  Although  the 
intensity,  as  well  as  the  quantity,  is  less  than  in  ma- 
chine electricity,  it  will  be  observed,  that  its  physio- 
logical effect,  estimated  by  the  number  of  shocks,  is 
vastly  greater ; and  this  difference,  inherent,  probably, 
in  the  peculiar  character  of  the  galvanic  and  induced 
currents,  (§  12,)  explains  the  beneficial  agency  of 
electro-magnetism  in  those  cases  where  nervous 
stimulation  alone  is  required,  and  where  free  elec- 
tricity, from  the  machine,  is  yet  comparatively 
inefficient.  The  result  of  the  battery  current, 
tested  in  the  same  way,  is  widely  different.  The 
current  from  a Smee’s  battery  of  twelve  pairs,  passed 
through  the  body,  deflected  the  galvanometer  needle 
48°,  and  this  deflection  was  not  momentary,  the 
result  of  a single  electrical  wave,  as  in  the  case  of  the 
electro-magnetic  apparatus,  but  permanent,  the  record 
of  an  almost  infinite  succession  of  similar  waves. 
The  current  from  a Smee’s  battery  of  twenty-four 
pairs,  in  like  manner  passed  through  the  body, 
deflected  the  galvanometer  70°.  The  quantity  of 
electricity,  in  these  cases,  is  immensely  dispropor- 


ELECTRO -MAGNETIC  APPARATUS.  27 


tioned  to  the  electro-magnetic  shock ; and  yet,  dur- 
ing the  continuance  of  the  current,  no  sensation, 
except  one  of  warmth,  could  be  perceived.  At  the 
commencement  of  the  current,  a slight  shock  was 
experienced. 

29.  The  following  practical  directions  may  be 
found  of  use  in  case  of  derangement,  or  other  cause 
of  failure,  in  the  electro-magnetic  apparatus.  It  is 
necessary  that  the  conducting  wires  should  always 
be  denuded  of  their  cotton  insulating  covering  where 
they  screw  into  the  cups  or  handles.  They  should 
also  be  screwed  in  tightly,  so  that  there  may  be 
good  metallic  contact.  Where  they  happen  to 
cross  one  another,  if  the  wires  are  bare , they  must 
not  be  allowed  to  touch,  as  otherwise  the  current 
would  flow  across,  instead  of  making  the  circuit  of 
the  instrument.  If  the  electro-magnetic  apparatus 
will  not  operate,  see,  first,  if  any  spark  is  perceptible 
on  rubbing  the  extremities  of  the  wires  from  the 
battery  together.  If  not,  the  battery  is  in  fault. 
This  may  be  owing  to  a sediment  of  copper  at  the 
bottom  of  the  battery,  making  a connection  between 
the  zinc  and  copper,  or  to  the  zinc  being  somewhere 
in  metallic  contact  with  the  copper  ; or  it  may  be 
owing  to  the  foulness  of  the  zinc  plate,  or  to  the 
weakness  of  the  copper  solution,  which,  in  that  case, 
will  have  lost  its  color. 

30.  If  the  battery  is  in  action,  see  next  if  there  is 
any  spark  when  the  electro-magnetic  instrument  is 
included  in  the  circuit  of  the  battery.  This  is  done, 
when  one  wire  from  the  battery  is  in  its  place,  by 


28 


FORMS  OF  ELECTRICITY. 


drawing  the  other  over  the  break-piece,  as  in  Fig.  2, 
or  over  its  own  screw-cup,  making  and  breaking 
contact.  It  may  also  be  observed,  if  the  bundle  of 
iron  wires  is  magnetized,  while  the  battery  is  con- 
nected with  the  instrument.  If  there  is  no  spark, 
and  the  wires  are  not  magnetized,  then  the  connec- 
tions of  the  instrument,  or  helix  of  coarse  wire,  are 
at  fault.  The  solderings  under  the  board  may  be 
found  to  be  defective,  or  there  may  be  some  acciden- 
tal cross  connection.  In  the  vibrating  armature,  see 
that  the  platinum  point,  and  the  spring  on  which  it 
bears,  are  bright  at  the  place  of  contact.  When  the 
battery  current  passes,  but  still  there  is  no  shock  with 
the  bundle  of  iron  wires  in  its  place,  the  fine  wire 
helix,  or  the  solderings  or  connections  under  the 
board,  are  at  fault.  If  the  helix  has  met  with  an 
accident,  observe  if  the  fine  wire  has  been  broken, 
on  any  part  of  the  surface  of  the  helix.  These 
directions  will  be  sufficient  to  enable  the  operator, 
especially  when  at  a distance  from  the  constructor  of 
the  apparatus,  to  obviate  any  slight  difficulties  which 
may  occur,  withofit  further  trouble. 

31.  Another  form  of  instrument,  sometimes  used 
for  medical  application,  is  the  magneto-electric 
machine,  (Fig.  5.)  In  this,  the  source  of  power  is  a 
permanent  steel  magnet.  The  current  is  obtained  by 
revolving  a pair  of  armatures,  surrounded  by  a helix 
of  wire,  between  the  poles  of  the  U-magnets,  seen 
in  the  figure.  This  is  accomplished  by  means  of 
the  multiplying  wheel.  Shocks  are  experienced 
whenever  the  induced  current  is  broken  by  a little 


MAGNETO-ELECTRIC  MACHINE.  29 

apparatus  on . the  axis.  The  strength  of  shock 
depends  on  the  power  of  the  magnet,  and  the  rapid- 
ity of  the  mechanical  motion.  Consequently,  by 
neutralizing  the  magnets,  by  placing  small  detached 


Fig . 5. 


armatures  over  their  extremities,  or  by  turning  the 
handle  slowly,  the  current  is  proportionally  dimin- 
ished. 

32.  The  quantity  of  the  electricity  from  this 
apparatus  is  rather  greater  than  that  from  the  electro- 
magnetic apparatus.  It  is  also  always  ready  for  use, 
and  requires  no  battery  or  solutions.  On  the  other 
hand,  it  is  less  easily  modulated  ; it  is  more  expensive, 
and  less  portable,  from  its  weight  and  size.  It  will 
be  found,  in  the  following  pages,  to  be  sometimes 
employed  by  the  most  skilful  European  practi- 
tioners. 


3* 


30 


MODES  OF  APPLICATION. 


III. — MODES  of  application. 

33.  This  subject  naturally  divides  itself  into  the 
inodes  of  applying  electricity  to  the  surface,  and  the 
modes  of  directing  it  with  reference  to  internal  organs. 
Nothing  is  more  distinctive  of  electricity  than  the 
variety  of  forms  in  which  it  may  be  exhibited,  and 
of  effects,  often  of  the  most  opposite  character,  which 
it  may  be  made  to  produce.  The  different  influences 
of  quantity  and  intensity,  of  the  intermittent  shock, 
and  continued  current,  and  of  a stronger  or  weaker 
administration,  have  already  been  referred  to.  In 
addition  to  these,  a very  different  effect  may  be  ob- 
tained from  the  same  current,  by  the  mode  in  which 
it  is  applied  to  the  surface, . and  especially  the  direc- 
tion in  which  it  is  sent  through  the  body,  or  particular 
organs.  The  mode  of  its  application  thus  becomes 
an  essential  condition  to  the  successful  use  of  the 
agent. 

34.  When  the  body  is  made  part  of  the  circuit, 
by  bringing  two  handles,  connected  with  the  poles 
of  the  electric  apparatus,  in  contact  with  the  skin, 
the  current  always  flows,  by  the  shortest  route, 
between  its  point  of  entrance  and  departure.  It  is 
not,  however,  confined  to  a single  line,  but  is  diffused 
so  as  to  embrace  the  organs  immediately  around  the 
axis  of  transmission.  By  regarding,  therefore,  the 
course  of  the  nerves,  and  the  anatomical  position  of 
the  organs,  the  current  may  easily  be  directed  so  as 


SURFACE  CONDUCTORS. 


31 


to  include  them  in  its  circuit,  and  to  subject  them 
to  the  influences  attending  its  passage. 

35.  The  handles,  or  conductors  used  as  the  me- 
dium of  communication,  are  so  constructed  as  to 
bring  a considerable  metallic,  or  other  conducting 
surface,  in  contact  with  the  skin.  This  is  rendered 
necessary  by  the  poor  conducting  power  of  the  latter, 
especially  in  a dry  condition.  The  skin  is  sometimes, 
also,  artificially  moistened,  to  increase  its  conduction, 
and  also  to  diffuse  the  electricity,  which  would  be 
painful  if  concentrated  on  a single  point  of  the 
surface.  Several  forms  of  handles  used  for  differ- 
ent purposes,  are  represented  in  Fig.  6.  The  simple 

Fig.  6.  f 

b d 


Bn 


cylindrical  handle,  of  German  silver,  is  shown  at  a. 
When  it  is  desired  to  produce  the  most  general 
effect  upon  the  system,  the  cylinder  handles  may  be 
grasped  by  the  patient,  the  current  then  traversing 
the  arms  and  chest,  from  side  to  side,  stimulating  the 
organs  of  respiration,  and,  to  a greater  or  less  extent, 
the  nerves  supplying  the  principal  vital  organs. 
Another  form  is  represented  in  b , where  the  upper 


32 


MODES  OF  APPLICATION. 


part  of  the  cylinder  consists  of  rosewood,  which 
insulates  the  metallic  portion  from  the  hand  of  the 
operator,  who  may  wish  to  direct  it.  It  may  he 
grasped  in  the  hands,  or  its  rounded  metallic  extrem- 
ity may  he  placed  in  contact  with  any  portion  of  the 
body  of  the  patient,  the  skin  being  previously 
moistened,  or,  what  is  preferable,  a moistened  cloth 
being  interposed.  A form  of  handle  exclusively  for 
surface  application,  is  seen  at  c,  in  which  the  shaft  is 
of  rosewood,  insulating  it  from  the  hands  of  the 
operator,  and  the  extremity,  a plated,  hemispherical 
disc,  which  may  be  applied  either  to  the  moistened 
skin,  or  covered  itself  with  moistened  cloth  or  leather. 
Another  handle,  for  surface  application,  is  that 
containing  the  sponge,  represented  in  d , in  which 
the  shaft* is  of  glass.  The  sponge  may  be  moistened 
with  water,  spirit,  or  a saline,  or  other  appropriate 

solution,  and  it  then  constitutes  the  mildest  and  most 

1 • 


Mg.  7. 


grateful  form  of  application.  The  slipper,  with  a 
metallic  sole,  is  represented  in  Fig.  7.  In  this  case, 
the  sole  of  the  stocking  may  be  moistened  with 
spirit,  or  cologne,  and  thus  complete  conduction, 
without  withdrawing  it  from  the  foot.  Where  two 
slippers  are  used,  the  current  passes  up  one  limb  and 
down  the  other.  Where  a cylinder  handle  and 
slipper  are  used,  on  the  same  side  of  the  body,  the 


SURFACE  CONDUCTORS. 


33 


current  passes  up  or  down  that  side.  Handles,  or 
conductors,  of  a peculiar  shape,  may  sometimes  he 
required,  as  for  the  ear  or  vagina,  which  will  be 
described  in  their  connection  hereafter. 

36.  In  using  the  sponge  handle,  spirit  or  cologne 
will  generally  be  preferred  to  water,  for  moistening 
the  surface,  as  counteracting,  by  their  stimulus,  any 
exposure  to  cold.  The  solutions  may  sometimes  be 
made  to  answer  an  independent  purpose,  such  being 
employed  in  sponging  a part  as  will  have  a positively 
beneficial  action.  Thus,  in  cutaneous  diseases,  the 
skin  may  be  sponged  with  a solution  of  acetate  of 
ammonia  (spirit  of  Mindererus),  or  other  cooling  salt. 
So,  also,  in  producing  reaction  of  the  skin,  or 
excitement  of  the  capillary  circulation,  water  or 
spirit  of  ammonia  may  be  used.  Metallic-  salts, 
which  would  be  decomposed  by  the  current,  should 
be  generally  avoided,  though  the  decomposition  of 
powerful  chemical  agents  may,  at  other  times,  be 
taken  advantage  of,  in  using  the  battery,  to  subject 
the  surface  to  the  action  of  principles  evolved  in 
contact  with  it,  in  their  nascent  state.  In  this  case, 
the  substance  playing  the  part  of  a base  in  the 
combination  is  evolved  at  the  surface  under  the 
positive  pole,  and  that  playing  the  part  of  an  acid,  at 
the  surface  under  the  negative  pole.  An  illustration 
of  this  will  be  found,  in  the  present  section,  in  the 
insensible  moxa  of  Dr.  Golding  Bird.  When  the 
object  of  application  js  the  skin,  the  handles  are 
usually  kept  in  motion,  to  distribute  the  influence. 
This  mode  of  application,  — that  of  changing  the 


34 


MODES  OF  APPLICATION. 


position  of  the  handles  and  the  direction  of  the 
current  — is  also  frequently  employed  in  acting  upon 
internal  organs,  or  in  stimulating  associated  nerves. 

37.  A mode  of  application  used  by  Wilson  Philip, 
and  particularly  adapted  to  the  battery,  is,  to  place 
two  thin  plates  of  metal,  two  or  three  inches  in 
diameter,  upon  the  surface  of  the  body,  where  it  is 
desired  to  make  electrical  communication.  The 
wires  of  the  battery  are  brought  in  contact  with  these 
plates,  and  constantly  moved  over  them,  especially 
the  negative  wire,  to  avoid  injury  to  the  cuticle 
beneath.  The  plates  are  previously  dipped  in  water, 
or  solution  of  common  salt,  as  should  generally  be 
done,  in  using  the  battery,  to  aid  the  diffusion  of  the 
electricity.  Some  irritation  of  the  skin  is,  at  any 
rate,  produced,  especially  if  the  wires  are  kept  sta- 
tionary. 

38.  Application  by  the  hand  of  the  operator  is 
frequently  an  advantageous  one,  admitting  all  the 
precision  of  touch.  In  this  case,  the  operator,  holding 
one  handle,  himself  becomes  the  medium  of  electrical 
communication,  and  uses  the  hand  which  is  disen- 
gaged, as  a conductor  to  the  surface  of  the  patient's 
body.  The  other  handle  is  held  by  the  patient.  This 
is  especially  useful  as  regards  the  face  and  extremities. 
In  the  case  of  a sprain,  in  its  latter  stages,  the  fingers 
of  the  operator  may  thus  be  employed,  to  exercise,  or 
cause  toJ  contract,  successively,  the  different  muscles 
connected  with  the  injured  articulation. 

39.  The  general  or  local  bath  is  one  of  the  most 
useful  and  elegant  modes  of  application.  In  this 


ELECTRIC  iL  EYE-BATH. 


35 


case,  the  water  being  wholly,  or  in  part,  the  conductor 
to  the  surface,  the  electrical  influence  is  diffused,  so 
as  to  constitute  a most  equable  and  mild  form  oi 
administration.  Where  the  water  is  to  be  made 
wholly  the  conductor,  the  two  handles  are  immersed, 
so  as  to  include  the  limb  or  body  of  the  patient  in 
the  straight  line  between  them.  A large  portion  of 
the  current  then  passes  through  the  intervening 
member,  from  the  fact  that  the  body  is  a better 
conductor  for  electricity  than  the  surrounding  water. 
Where  the  current  is  only  partially  to  be  conducted 
by  the  water,  the  patient  may  hold  one  of  the  handles, 
and  the  other  may  be  placed  in  the  bath.  In  this 
case,  those  parts  in  the  bath  nearest  to  the  handle 
receive  the  greatest  amount  of  electricity.  Examples 
of  the  local  bath  may  be  found  in  the  foot  bath,  for 
ulcerations  of  the  foot ; the  hip  bath,  for  diseases  of 
menstruation ; and  a very  delicate  application  in  the 
eye-glass,  for  amaurosis,  and  other  diseases  of  that 
organ.  The  electrical  eye-glass,  or  bath,  is  represented 
in  Fig.  8.  I have  caused  this  instrument  to  be  con- 
structed, as  a means  of  dis- 
tributing the  electrical  cur- 
rent, in  its  application  to 
the  eye,  in  which  case,  a 
very  powerful  administra- 
tion may  be  resorted  to  without  injury.  The  bowl 
and  shaft  are  of  glass.  A screw-cup  is  adapted 
below,  for  connection  with  the  conducting  wire. 
Rose-water,  or  other  appropriate  solution,  may  be 
employed,  and  either  the  electro-magnetic  or  battery 
current  may  be  used. 


Fig.  8. 


3G  MODES  01'  APPLICATION. 

40.  Electro-Puncture  — Galvano-Puncture.  — 
The  surgical  application  of  electro  or  galvano- 
puncture  is  accredited  to  M.  Berlioz,  in  1816,  but 
was  introduced,  only  some  years  later,  in  the  Hospital 
de  la  Pitie.  It  is  now  very  extensively  used  on  the 
continent.  “ This  mode  of  applying  electricity,” 
says  Becquerel,  “ is  the  most  efficacious  of  all  those 
that  have  been  employed,  since  it  permits  us  to  act 
directly  on  the  diseased  part.”*  In  this  case,  one  or 
both  of  the  conductors  consist  of  gold,  silver,  or 
platinum  acu-puncture  needles  (never  of  steel),  which 
are  thrust  under  the  skin,  or  into  deep-seated  parts,  and 
made  the  medium*  of  the  galvanic  discharge.  The 
primary  current  of  the  battery  is  here  indicated,  as 
the  shocks  of  the  electro-magnetic  apparatus  would 
be  in  most  cases  intolerable,  except  under  the  influ- 
ence of  ether.  In  aneurism,  where  coagulation  of  the 
olood  is  to  be  effected  by  this  means,  the  quantity 
current  of  the  battery  is  essential.  The  severity  of 
this  application  will  prevent  its  use,  except  for  local 
influence,  where  a current  of  electricity,  passed 
through  the  same  parts  from  the  surface,  would  not 
be  equally  effectual. 

41.  The  needles  should  be  of  an  unoxidizable  mate- 
rial, and  of  gold  or  silver,  in  preference  to  platinum,  as 
better  conductors,  and  therefore  less  liable  to  be  heat- 
ed during  the  transmission  of  the  current.  Attempts 
have  been  made  to  varnish  the  needles,  excepting  at 
the  extremity,  to  prevent  the  destruction  of  the  flesh 


Braithewaite’s  Retrospect,  Part  XV. 


ELECTRO-PUNCTURE. 


37 


in  contact  with  them.  This,  if  it  could  tie  effected 
by  japanning,  or  any  other  process,  would  he  desirable. 
The  negative  needle  is  the  one  which  exercises  the 
greatest  local  influence.  Magendie  directs  that  the 
insertion  of  the  needles  should  be  accomplished  by 
a sudden  plunge,  rather  than  by  drilling.  Care  must 
be  taken  that  they  do  not  touch  each  other,  while 
conducting  the  current,  as  they  would  become  ignited, 
and  destroy  the  surrounding  tissue.  These  needles 
should  be  ordered  by  the  surgeon,  of  the  proper  length 
and  fineness,  and  may  then  be  mounted  with  a slen- 
der wooden  insulating  handle,  having  a delicate 
screw-cup,  or  sliding  vice,  on  the  end,  for  the  battery 
wires  ; or  they  may  be  made  with  eyes,  into  which 
the  wires  can  be  threaded.  The  current  from  the 
battery  may  be  modulated,  to  avoid  too  powerful 
action,  by  using  a very  dilute  solution,  or  only 
partially  filling  the  cups. 

42.  Dr.  Shuster,  in  a paper  read,  on  this  subject, 
before  the  French  Academy,  in  January,  1843,*  takes 
the  ground  that  electricity  is  only  useful  as  a thera- 
peutic agent,  when  introduced  into  the  substance  of 
the  affected  organs,  by  means  of  electro-puncture, 
and  that  it  then  constitutes  one  of  the  most  powerful 
and  inoffensive  medicinal  agents  we  possess.  He 
says,  “ Electro-puncture,  applied  to  the  treatment  of 
diseases,  acts  in  several  ways,  viz.  : First,  as  a direct 
stimulant  of  sensible  contractility  and  absorption. 
Second,  by  causing  small  eschars,  thus,  as  it  were, 

* Rev.  Med.  January,  1843.  — Lond.  and  Ed.  Monthly  Jour,  of 
Med.  Science.  June,  1844.  — Braithewaite,  Part  X. 

4 


38 


MODES  OF  APPLICATION. 


cauterizing,  and  destroying  in  detail,  a portion  of  the 
tumor.  Third,  by  decomposing  the  aqueous  portion 
of  tumors.  Fourth,  by  forming,  at  the  will  of  the 
operator,  minute  openings  for  the  exit  of  the  fluid 
part  of  the  tumors.  Fifth,  by  producing  in  the  wall 
of  the  cyst,  or  other  cavity,  such  a degree  of  inflam- 
mation as  will  cause  obliteration  by  adhesion,  without 
giving  rise  to  any  inconvenience,  if  the  patient  be 
kept  under  strict  surveillance.  Sixth,  by  coagulating 
the  blood,  and  causing  effusion  of  little  masses  of 
plastic  lymph  into  the  cellular  tissue.  Electro- 
puncture, properly  applied,  is,  in  the  majority  of 
cases,  attended  with  slight  pain  only,  is  free  from 
inconvenience  and  danger  to  the  patient,  and  fre- 
quently accomplishes  a cure,  when  all  other  means 
have  failed.” 

43.  Galvanic  Moxa.  — Another  surgical  applica- 
tion,  possessed  of  very  peculiar  properties,  the  in- 
stantaneous or  deep  moxa,  was  apparently  first 
brought  forward  byM.  Fabre  Palaprat,  at  a sitting  of 
the  French  Academy,  in  February,  1831.  It  consists 
in  galvano-puncture,  with  fine  platinum  needles,  con- 
nected with  a battery  of  large  plates.  The  circuit  is 
completed  by  thrusting  the  needles  into  the  flesh,  when 
they  immediately  become  incandescent,  causing  a 
pipe  of  destroyed  tissue  to  separate  and  fall  out  in  a few 
days.  The  lesion  here  is  strictly  local,  and  instanta- 
neously produced,  a powerful  stimulus  being  given  at 
the  same  time  to  surrounding  parts.  It  has  been  used 
in  arthritic  inflammations  and  tumors,  and  has  been 
proposed  as  a means  of  destroying  diseased  tissues. 


INSENSIBLE  MOXA. 


39 


A battery  of  some  intensity  would  be  required  to 
ignite  the  platinum  needles,  if  merely  thrust  into  the 
flesh,  without  being  brought  into  contact  with  each 
other.  If,  however,  the  needles  are  made  to  touch 
each  other,  they  can  be  readily  brought  to  incandes- 
cence by  a battery  of  two  or  three  pairs  of  large  size. 
In  the  case  of  tumors  which  can  be  readily  transfixed 
by  a single  needle,  this  may  be  readily  ignited  by 
being  made  the  medium  of  a galvanic  discharge,  the 
poles  of  the  battery  being  made  to  touch  its  two 
extremities. 

44.  Insensible  Moxa.  — A simple  form  of  galvanic 
apparatus  has  been  lately  recommended  by  Dr.  Gol- 
ding Bird,*  as  the  means  of  producing  an  insensible 
moxa.  The  same  fact  has  also  been  observed  by 
Humboldt. f Dr.  Bird  produces  two  blisters,  the  size 
of  a shilling,  on  the  surface.  He  covers  one  with 
zinc  foil,  the  other  with  a silver  plate,  and  connects 
these  with  a wire.  The  whole  is  then  covered  with  a 
water  dressing  and  oiled  silk.  The  surface  under  the 
zinc  plate  becomes  white,  and  in  forty-eight  hours  a de- 
cided eschar  will  appear,  which  will  begin  to  separate 
at  the  edges  in  four  or  five  days.  The  plates  being 
then  removed,  the  surface  under  the  silver  will  be 
found  healed.  A common  poultice  applied  to  the  part 
will  leave  a healthy,  granulating  sore,  freely  discharg- 
ing pus.  * If  any  pain  is  felt  during  the  process,  it 
will  be  referred  to  the  silver  plate.  Dr.  Bird  knows 
of  no  other  way  by  which  an  equally  effective  dis- 


* Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  June,  1847. 
t Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  May,  1847. 


40 


MODES  OF  APPLICATION. 


charge  can  be  obtained,  except  by  the  moxa,  or 
actual  cautery.  The  effect  is  ascribed  by  him, 
whether  correctly  or  not,  to  the  corrosive  action  of 
chloride  of  zinc,  in  its  nascent  state,  while  forming 
under  the  influence  of  galvano-decomposition.  When 
the  surfaces  are  not  blistered,  the  zinc  and  silver 
plates  form  a galvanic  arrangement,  which  depends 
for  its  activity  upon  the  moisture  of  the  skin.  This 
use  of  the  insensible  current,  from  a single  galvanic 
pair,  may  be  considered  the  prototype  of  a recent  form 
of  quackery,  the  “ galvanic  belts,”  which  are  so  con- 
structed-, however,  as  to  fail  in  the  production  even 
of  an  insensible  current. 

45.  Electricity  with  Etherization.  — The  use 
of  etherization,  in  connection  with  galvanic  applica- 
tion, has  not  yet  received  attention.  The  most 
obvious  action  of  electricity,  during  etherization,  is 
to  rouse  the  nerves  from  insensibility.  From  exper- 
iments with  a rabbit,  however,  I am  satisfied  that 
electro-puncture  may  be  resorted  to  when  the  current, 
does  not  traverse  any  important  nerve,  without 
terminating  the  state  of  general  unconsciousness. 
"Whether  the  nerves  of  the  part  may  not,  in  this  case, 
be  quickened,  so  as  to  communicate  impressions  of 
pain,  which  there  may  be  no  power  of  expressing, 
cannot,  perhaps,  well  be  determined,  without  repeat- 
ing the  experiment  on  a human  subject.  In  the 
galvanic  moxa,  where  the  current  is  merely  made  to 
traverse  a conductor  passing  through  the  flesh,  there 
can  be  no  interference  with  the  condition  of  insensi- 
bility. Whether  electricity  would  be  applicable  to 


DIRECTION  OF  CURRENT. 


41 


the  excitement  of  uterine  contraction,  during  the 
administration  of  ether,  remains  a subject  for  exper- 
iment. 

46.  It  has  been  stated,  (<§>  10,)  that  the  positive 
electrical  current,  flowing  in  the  direction  of  the 
ramifications  of  the  nerves,  produces  stronger  mus- 
cular contractions,  than  when  flowing  in  the  opposite 
direction.  For  instance,  if  the  cylinder  handles  be 
held  one  in  each  hand,  the  sensation  will  usually  be 
much  stronger  in  one  wrist  than  the  other,  owing  to 
the  spasmodic  contraction  of  the  muscles  of  that  arm. 
This  is  the  arm  by  which  the  current  leaves  the 
system,  and  this  indication  constitutes  the  best  meth- 
od in  the  case  of  the  electro-magnetic  apparatus,  by 
which  the  practitioner  can  ascertain  the  direction  of 
the  current,  — an  object,  sometimes,  as  will  be  seen,  of 
considerable  importance.  The  handle,  then,  held  in 
connection  with  the  wrist  in  which  there  is  least 
sensation , is  the  positive  handle,  at  which  the  elec- 
tricity enters  ; the  handle  held  in  connection  with 
the  wrist  in  which  there  is  most  sensation , is  the 
negative  handle,  by  which  the  electricity  leaves  the 
system. 

47.  Becquerel,  in' speaking  of  the  battery,  observes 
that,  when  currents  of  no  great  intensity  travel  in 
the  direction  of  the  nervous  ramifications,  muscular 
contraction  ensues  ; when  in  the  opposite  direction, 
pain.  The  generalization  from  this  is  very  simple. 
In  the  first  case,  the  function  of  the  nerves  of  motion 
is  excited  ; in  the  second,  of  sensation  ; each  being 
stimulated  when  the  direction  of  the  galvanic  cur- 

4 * 


42 


MODES  OF  APPLICATION. 


rent  coincides  with  that  of  their  own  proper  impulses. 
Marianini’s  experiment  with  the  frog  has  already 
been  referred  to  (§  10).  Matteucci  and  Lauget  have 
shown  that  nerves  of  sensation  and  motion  may  be 
conveniently  distinguished  by  the  different  reaction 
which  electricity,  made  to  traverse  them,  exerts  upon 
the  connected  muscles.  Dr.  Golding  Bird  remarks, 
in  his  recent  lectures  on  physiological  electricity,* 
“ It  seems  quite  certain  that,  cceteris  paribus,  nerves 
only  convey  the  influence  of  a current  in  a given  and 
definite  direction.7’  This  fact,  of  the  propagation 
of  electrical  influence  by  a nerve,  in  accordance  with 
its  function,  whether  of  motion  or  of  sensation,  will 
constantly  appear  in  the  cases  which  are  given  here- 
after, and  is  an  important  consideration  in  directing  a 
current  for  the  purpose  of  reaction,  with  a particular 
class  of  nerves,  or  with  particular  parts  of  individual 
nerves,  as  the  nerve  centres  or  extremities. 

48.  Becquerel  has  also  remarked  that,  to  rouse  or 
stimulate  an  organ,  the  current  should  be  sent  in  the 
opposite  direction  to  the  ramifications  of  the  nerves. 
This  may,  probably,  be  referred  to  the  influence 
exerted  on  the  nerve  centres  of  the  organic  nerves, 
towards  which  the  impulse  of  the  current  is,  in  that 
case,  directed,  and  from  which  a vital  reaction  to  the 
organ  ensues.  To  produce  the  temporary  stimulation 
of  a function,  the  current  should  coincide  with  that 
of  the  nervous  current  of  the  organ.  It  would  appear 
that  a different  direction  of  current  should  be  em- 


Lond.  Med.  Gaz.,  May,  1847. 


APPLICATION  TO  TISSUES. 


43 


ployed  to  influence  directly  nerves  of  sensation  and 
nerves  of  motion  ; but  in  mixed  nerves,  the  reflex 
action  of  one  series  upon  the  other  will  frequently 
render  the  law  of  direction  uniform,  whichever  func- 
tion is  to  be  excited.  These  considerations  have  an 
immediate  application  in  paralysis.  The  sympathy 
here  is  so  general  that  in  many  cases,  which  will 
hereafter  be  specified,  it  is  not  only  allowable,  but 
desirable  to  send  the  current  in  both  directions.  It  is 
sometimes,  however,  an  object  to  act  only  upon  the 
muscles  ; at  others,  to  act  upon  the  nerve  conductors ; 
and  at  others,  to  act  upon  the  spinal  cord,  or  to  direct 
action  principally  to  the  brain.  Where  a special 
function,  such  as  the  peristaltic  action  of  the  intes- 
tines, is  to  be  excited,  it  will  be  found  desirable  to 
send  the  current  in  the  direction  from  the  nerve  cen- 
tres toward  the  nerve  extremities.  So,  to  stimulate  the 
capillary  circulation,  by  cooperating  with  the  organic 
nerves,  the  current  should  be  sent  in  a direction 
coincident  with  the  nervous.  It  will  be  observed 
that  the  reaction  of  the  electrical  current  with  the 
nervous  current,  dependent  on  their  reciprocal  direc- 
tions, is  a physical  reaction,  as  distinct  as  that  of  the 
electric  current  with  the  magnetic  needle,  where  the 
position  of  the  latter  is  always  in  strict  relation  to 
the  direction  of  the  former. 

49.  Another  mode  of  action,  less  dependent  on 
the  nervous  system,  is  the  direct  application  of 
electricity  to  the  organs.  It  has  been  stated  that 
muscular  contraction  could  be  produced  by  the  im- 
mediate stimulus  of  electricity  upon  muscular  tissue, 


44 


MODES  OF  APPLICATION. 


and  also  that  vital  changes  in  the  tissues,  could  be 
effected  by  the  immediate  influence  of  a quantity 
current.  In  this  mode  of  administration,  electricity 
nay  be  sent  through  an  organ  in  different  directions, 
either  without  reference  to  the  nerves,  or  cooperat- 
ing with  them  to  a greater  or  less  extent. 

50.  The  effect  of  currents  of  different  descriptions 
has  been  alluded  to.  The  current  from  the  battery 
will  be  found  necessary  to  produce  immediate,  vital 
or  organic  changes  in  the  tissues  ; and  its  power,  in 
this  respect,  leads  to  a necessary  caution.  The  in- 
fluence of  a quantity  current  is  to  produce  increased 
action  in  a part,  and  this  without  the  intermediate 
influence  of  the  nervous  system.  Consequently,  Wil- 
son Philip  states  that  he  has  known  inflammation  of 
the  lungs  produced  in  an  animal  by  continuing  the 
passage  of  a powerful  current  beyond  a moderate 
length  of  time.  Hence  the  battery  current  cannot 
be  properly  applied  to  many  cases  of  inflammation  in 
which,  on  the  other  hand,  electro-magnetism,  which 
acts  as  a simple  stimulant  and  alterative,  maybe  em- 
ployed with  benefit.  To  effect  nervous  stimulation,  the 
electro-magnetic  current  is  generally  sufficient ; but  to 
effect  any  organic  change  in  the  nervous  tissue,  as 
well  as  in  other  organs,  the  battery  must  be  resorted 
to.  The  different  kinds  of  shock  of  induced  electri- 
city will  be  found  all  to  have  their  application.  Thus 
the  separate  shocks,  whose  influence  is  to  arouse  the 
system,  would  be  used  in  suspended  animation,  — the 
rapid  succession  of  shocks,  producing  tonic  muscular 
contractions,  in  some  conditions  of  the  uterus  during 
parturition. 


RULES  OF  APPLICATION. 


45 


51.  The  strength  of  the  shock  to  be  administered, 
or  the  amount  of  the  continuous  current,  must  de- 
pend upon  the  temperament  of  the  patient,  upon  the 
seat  of  the  disease,  and  the  object  to  be  accomplished. 
Different  parts  of  the  body  differ  exceedingly  in  their 
sensibility  to  electricity.  The  hands  and  the  face 
are  very  sensitive,  while  the  back  part  of  the  neck, 
which,  as  a great  nervous  centre,  is  frequently  used  as 
the  entering  point  for  the  current,  has  hardly  any 
sensibility.  Individual  sensibility  also  differs  exceed- 
ingly, both  in  healthy  and  diseased  conditions.  The 
first  rule  to  be  adopted,  is  to  begin  gradually,  and 
continue  the  application  but  a short  time.  Five 
minutes  may  be  sufficient  for  a first  application,  to 
be  increased  in  a week  to  twenty  or  thirty  minutes. 
Electricity  may  also  at  first  be  applied,  once  a day,  or 
every  other  day,  and  subsequently,  perhaps,  more  fre- 
quently. In  paralysis,  where  sensation  is  deficient, 
no  such  caution  would  generally  be  necessary,  and 
the  highest  powers  of  the  apparatus  might  be  early 
called  into  use.  Another  rule  should  be,  to  grad- 
uate the  shock  to  the  sensations  of  the  patient,  let- 
ting the  application  be  agreeable  wherever  it  is  pos- 
sible. Over-stimulation  by  electricity,  as  by  any 
other  agency,  produces  subsequent  exhaustion,  and 
this  must,  therefore,  be  carefully  avoided.  One  case 
of  extreme  nervous  sensibility  has  come  under  my 
notice,  in  which  it  seemed  impossible  to  graduate  the 
electric  power  sufficiently  low  to  avoid  reaction.  In 
this  case,  the  previous  exhaustion  of  nervous  energy 
was  so  complete  as  to  afford  no  basis  for  stimulation. 


46 


APPLICATION  TO  DISEASE. 


The  application  of  a feeble  primary  current  from  the 
battery  might  have  given  a better  result.  Another 
rule  is,  to  use  patience  in  continuing  the  application. 
The  restoration  of  vital  power  is  frequently  a slow 
process,  and  though  the  results  are  sometimes  sudden 
and  unexpected,  yet  the  practitioner  must  be  encour- 
aged if  he  finds  steady,  though  not  rapid  progress. 
Finally,  in  diseases  such  as  paralysis,  in  which  elec- 
tricity is  known  to  be  beneficial,  no  case  should  be 
abandoned  on  the  failure  of  electro-magnetism,  with- 
out resorting  to  the  battery.  In  the  Dublin  Quarterly 
Journal  of  Medical  Science,  for  February,  1847,  a 
case  is  quoted  by  Dr.  Donovan,  in  Avhich  paralysis 
of  four  years’  standing  was  relieved  by  the  use  of  a 
powerful  battery,  while  a lesser  degree  of  strength 
produced  no  effect. 

IV.  — GENERAL  APPLICATION  TO  DISEASE. 

52.  Electrical  Diagnosis.  — Attempts  have  been 
made  to  employ  the  sensations  produced  by  electricity, 
in  traversing  diseased  parts,  as  a means  of  diagnosis. 
Although  nothing  reliable  has  been  accomplished  in 
this  direction,  the  subject  yet  deserves  notice  in  a 
treatise  like  the  present,  which  seeks  to  embrace  all 
applications  which  hold  out  any  promise  of  useful- 
ness. The  fact  is  well  known,  that  tissues  and 
nerves  which  are  inflamed,  or  otherwise  diseased, 
are  often  more  sensitive  to  the  passage  of  electricity 
than  those  in  a healthy  state.  Some  discrimination 


VITALIZING  POWER. 


47 


may  also  probably  be  made  as  to  the  character  of 
sensation  in  different  conditions  of  disease.  This 
has  suggested  the  idea  of  determining  the  position 
and  nature  of  internal  lesions,  by  the  electrical  cur- 
rent. Diseases  of  the  spine  and  of  the  lungs  are 
examples  of  cases  in  which  this  experiment  has  been 
tried.  The  idea  of  thus  probing  deep-seated  organs 
is  one  of  interest,  and  calculated  to  awaken  inquiry. 
In  some  cases,  the  rapid  administration  of  electro- 
magnetism would  be  available  for  this  purpose  but 
for  nice  distinctions,  the  continued  current  of  the 
battery  would  obviously  be  preferable. 

53.  Vitalizing  Power. — One  of  the  most  common 
objects  of  electrical  application  is,  to  cooperate  with 
vitality.  This  may  indeed  be  considered  the  central 
principle  in  the  medical  use  of  electricity.  In  the 
nervous  system,  it  is  illustrated  in  cases  of  exhaustion, 
prostration,  enervation,  and  paralysis;  in  the  tissues, 
in  gangrene,  erysipelas,  indolent  sores,  and  deficient 
nutrition.  It  will  be  found,  indeed,  to  enter,  more 
or  less  directly,  into  every  case  of  electrical  appli- 
cation. The  idea  will  be  frequently  suggested  to 
the  practitioner,  by  his  own  observation,  that  the 
agent  electricity  works  in  the  direction  of  health, 
even  in  the  most  opposite  affections.  This  is  ex- 
plained simply  by  the  fact,  that  its  operation  is  to 
quicken  the  vital  poAvers  and  natural  functions  of  the 
part  to  which  it  is  applied.  Diseased  action,  when 
local,  is  perhaps  especially  controlled  by  the  supply  of 
nervous  power,  previously  deficient,  which  is  brought 
into  action,  connecting  and  harmonizing  functions. 


48 


APPLICATION  TO  DISEASE. 


54.  Reactive  Power.  — Electricity  constitutes 
the  most  powerful  means  of  effecting  vital  reaction, 
in  the  hands  of  the  medical  practitioner.  According 
to  Matteucci,  the  nervous  system  responds  to  electri- 
city after  all  other  stimulants  have  ceased  to  act. 
Thus  it  has  a very  important  application  in  suspended 
animation,  narcotism,  and  stupor.  Another  equally 
important  application,  which  has  only  begun  to  re- 
ceive attention,  is  that  to  collapse  and  the  sinking 
stages  of  disease. 

55.  Alterative  Action. — An  influence  frequent- 
ly exerted  by  electricity  is  to  change  the  action  of 
an  organ,  or  the  general  tone  of  the  system,  thereby 
interrupting  a diseased  condition.  The  application 
of  electricity  by  the  sponge  handle,  in  cutaneous 
diseases,  is  perhaps  founded  on  this  principle,  causing 
the  skin  to  take  on  a new  action.  So  also  in  some 
nervous  affections,  and  perhaps  in  applications  to  the 
brain.  As  a simple  alterative,  electro-magnetism  is 
most  generally  applied. 

56.  Sedative  Action.  — The  continuous  current 
of  the  battery  exerts  often  a tranquillizing  influence, 
harmonizing  irregular  action  of  the  nervous  system, 
at  the  same  time  that  it  adds  to  its  power.  Thus 
convulsions  are  quieted  by  the  steady  current,  though 
increased  by  the  intermittent  or  electro-magnetic 
shock. 

57.  Promotion  of.  Nutrition. — In  deficient  nu- 
trition, electricity  may  cooperate  in  the  vital  trans- 
formation and  organization  of  the  nutritive  matter, 
by  means  of  the  nervous  system,  or  by  direct  action 


INFLUENCE  OVER  SECRETION.  49 

on  the  tissues  of  a part.  To  produce  increased 
action  in  the  latter  case,  the  battery  must  be  used. 
This  will  be  done  whenever  a part  needs  to  be 
nourished,  or  the  waste  of  any  organ  to  be  replaced. 
As  a genera]  rule,  the  battery  current  should  be  feeble, 
and  the  application  long  continued  and  frequent. 

58.  Promotion  of  Secretion.  — Wilson  Philip 
says,  u I cannot  help  regarding  it  as  almost  ascer- 
tained, that  in  those  diseases  in  which  the  derange- 
ment is  in  the  nervous  power  alone,  where  the 
sensorial  functions  are  entire,  and  the  vessels  healthy, 
and  merely  the  power  of  secretion,  which  seems 
immediately  to  depend  on  the  nervous  system,  is  at 
fault,  galvanism  will  often  prove  a valuable  means  of 
relief.7’  * The  immediate  influence  of  galvanism  on 
the  tissue  of  secreting  organs  will  also  appear  here- 
after. The  battery  current  is  most  efficient  for  this 
application,  but  nervous  stimulation  may  be  effected 
also  by  electro-magnetism.  The  current  should  be 
sent  along  the  nerves  supplying  the  organ  in  the  direc- 
tion from  the  nerve  centre  toward  the  nerve  extrem- 
ities, where  it  is  desired  to  produce  an  immediate  stim- 
ulation of  the  function,  and  in  the  opposite  direction 
where  it  is  desired  to  produce  gradual  and  permanent 
stimulation.  It  may  also  be  sent  through  and  through 
the  organ  in  different  directions.  The  strength  and 
stimulating  character  of  the  application  will  vary 
with  the  organ.  In  deficient  secretion  from  the 
mucous  membrane  of  the  lungs,  a gentle  and  diffused 
current  will  be  indicated. 


* Vital  Functions,  2d  ed.  p.  331. 

5 


50 


APPLICATION  TO  DISEASE. 


59.  Promotion  of  Absorption. — In  effusion  of 
serum  or  lymph,  in  some  forms  of  hypertrophy,  in 
bony  deposits,  rheumatic  enlargements,  and  every 
undue  organic  development,  with  the  exception,  per- 
haps, of  some  malignant  growths,  the  power  of  the 
absorbents  needs  to  be  quickened,  and  this  may  often 
be  effected  by  electrical  action.  In  this  case,  the  ap- 
plication is  usually  made  directly  to  the  organ,  though 
the  rule  still  prevails,  in  acting  through  the  nervous 
system,  that  the  vital  stimulus,  artificially  supplied, 
directs  itself  to,  or  is  principally  perceived  in,  that 
function  whose  efficiency  is  suspended.  In  other 
words,  the  tendency  of  the  nervous  influence  seems 
to  be,  to  harmonize  the  various  vital  functions,  dis- 
proportionate action  appearing  thus  to  proceed  from 
causes  acting  originally  on  the  life  of  the  tissues. 
In  serous  effusion,  accompanied  with  inflammation, 
the  battery  cannot  be  used,  but  a cautious  and  gen- 
tle application  of  the  electro-magnetic  current  may 
be  effectual.  In  other  cases  of  effusion,  the  battery 
will  be  most  efficient. 

60.  Capillary  Circulation.  — The  increase  of 
the  capillary  circulation,  under  the  influence  of  the 
current,  has  been  referred  to.  This  takes  place  in 
a very  striking  manner,  when  the  sponge  handles 
are  used  in  connection  with  the  battery.  The  skin, 
in  a short  time  after  the  application,  becomes  warm 
and  red,  especially  under  the  negative  handle,  where 
the  current  passes  out  in  the  direction  of  the  nervous 
organic  current.  The  excitement  of  the  functions 
of  the  skin  may  be  spoken  of  in  this  connection. 


INFLAMMATION. 


51 


It  wii  be  seen  hereafter,  that  perspiration  frequently 
breaks  out,  and  warmth  is  established  in  a part  sub- 
jected to  the  influence  of  the  battery.  This  takes 
place  also,  though  not  so  efficiently,  under  the  use 
of  electro-magnetism.  The  arterial  action  is  proba- 
bly increased  by  all  modes  of  application,  and  is 
especially  quickened  in  the  smaller  vessels,  as  may 
be  presumed,  by  the  convulsion  of  the  shock. 

61.  Digestion  and  Menstruation.  — The  func- 
tions of  digestion  and  menstruation  are  peculiarly 
under  the  influence  of  galvanism.  They  will  be 
treated  of  in  connection  with  their  diseases.  The 
application,  in  the  case  of  the  diseases  of  women,  is 
so  simple  that  it  can  generally  be  made  by  the  pa- 
tient without  assistance.  Otherwise,  as  a general 
rule,  it  may  be  committed  to  a female  attendant. 

62.  Use  in  Inflammation.  — The  tendency  of 
the  battery  current  is  to  produce  increased  organic 
action;  the  tendency  of  a feeble  electro-magnetic 
current  is  hardly  more  than  an  alterative  stimulant. 
Still  the  application  of  electricity  is  contra-indicated 
by  active  and  progressive  inflammation,  except  in  a 
few  rare  cases.  Dr.  Wilson  Philip  states,  as  a result 
of  microscopic  observation,*  that  the  condition  of 
the  capillaries  in  inflammation  is  one  of  distention  and 
debility,  while  the  arterial  action  is  increased.  Stim- 
ulation of  the  capillaries,  therefore,  in  such  cases, 
may  relieve  inflammation,  especially  when  of  a pas- 
sive character.  This  power  of  stimulating  the  capil- 


* Vital  Functions,  2d  ed.  p.  279. 


52 


APPLICATION  TO  DISEASE. 


laries  on  the  surface  of  the  body  is  peculiarly  within 
the  province  of  electricity.  In  an  advanced  stage 
of  inflammation,  when  the  capillaries  are  so  burdened 
as  to  stop  the  circulation,  an  increase  of  vital  power, 
determined  by  electricity,  may  be  of  important  ser- 
vice. So,  also,  electricity  may  be  summoned  to 
terminate  a condition  of  things  consequent  upon 
inflammation,  which  is  only  continued  from  want  of 
reactive  power. 

63.  Use  in  Congestion.  — The  application  of 
electricity  to  an  organ  in  the  early  stages  of  con- 
gestion would  be  inadmissible.  In  the  later  stages, 
it  may  prove  beneficial,  aiding  the  vital  powers  in 
the  resumption  of  the  natural  function  of  the  organ. 
The  electro-magnetic  current  alone  is  indicated 
here,  and  great  caution,  as  in  the  case  of  inflam- 
mation, would  be  required. 

64.  Counter  Irritation,  Revulsion. — An  organ 
which  is  inflamed  or  congested  may  sometimes  be 
relieved  by  stimulating  another  organ  connected  with 
it  by  position  or  nervous  association.  It  frequently 
happens  in  the  inflammation  of  one  organ,  that 
neighboring  organs  are  torpid.  A double  relief  can 
therefore  be  obtained,  where  it  is  possible  to  stim- 
ulate the  latter  without  acting  upon  the  former. 
Electricity,  in  most  of  its  surface  applications,  is 
easily  capable  of  being  converted  into  a rubefacient 
or  irritant,  with  the  advantage  of  stimulating  into 
activity  all  the  functions  of  the  skin.  It  can  also 
be  iirected  so  as  to  excite  specific  internal  organs. 
For  irritating  the  skin,  the  sponge  or  metallic  han- 


MUSCULAR  EXERCISE. 


53 


dies  may  be  used  with  the  battery,  being  kept  near 
each  other,  and  moved  over  the  surface  ; or  the 
metallic  plates  of  Wilson  Philip  (<§>  37)  may  be 
employed.  With  electro-magnetism,  a metallic  han- 
dle, more  or  less  dry,  and  presenting  a comparatively 
small  surface  to  the  skin,  may  be  used.  Sparks 
may  also  be  drawn  from  the  patient,  on  the  insu- 
lating stool.  It  has  been  stated  that  suppressed 
eruptions  have  been  brought  out  by  this  mode  of 
revulsion. 

65.  Organic  Contraction.  — An  influence  of 
electricity,  capable  of  important  applications,  is  the 
restoration  of  organic  contractility  or  tension  in 
relaxed  tissues.  This  applies  not  only  to  muscular 
tissue,  but  especially  to  the  ligamentous  system,  in- 
cluding fibrous  and  capsular  ligaments.  Examples 
of  this  will  be  given  hereafter. 

66.  Muscular  Exercise. — Much  advantage,  at 
times,  is  derived  from  the  effect  of  muscular  con- 
traction induced  by  electricity,  in  moving  organs 
upon  one  another,  and  very  probably  in  old  inflam- 
mations, such  as  sprains,  in  breaking  up  adhesions. 
Single  muscles  on  the  surface  of  the  body  can  be 
made  to  contract  independently  of  those  surrounding 
them,  and  the  fullest  play  of  the  parts  is  thus  se- 
cured. In  the  application  of  an  interrupted  current 
to  the  abdomen,  the  parietes  are  ^contracted  in  a 
variety  of  directions,  as  well  as  the  muscular  fibres 
of  all  the  included  organs,  thus  producing  a thorough 
movement,  which,  in  some  forms  of  dyspepsia,  is 
perhaps  one  of  the  most  favorable  influences.  In 

5 * 


54 


APPLICATION  TO  DISEASE. 


paralysis,  the  exercise  given  to  the  muscles  is  of 
great . importance  in  preserving  the  contractility 
of  the  tissue,  and  in  preventing  the  loss  of  organiza- 
tion and  waste  of  substance.  Electro-magnetism  is 
most  applicable  for  this  purpose. 


V.  — SPECIAL  APPLICATION  TO  DISEASE. 

67.  In  the  present  section,  the  principles  already 
laid  down  will  be  applied  to  the  treatment  of  dis- 
ease. Upon  the  correct  understanding  of  the  gen- 
eral laws  which  govern  application,  and  upon  the 
skill  and  resource  of  the  practitioner,  the  successful 
use  of  electricity,  as  a remedial  agent,  must  very 
much  depend.  A writer  in  the  Revue  Medico- Cki- 
rurgicale  speaks  of  electricity  as  a principle  whose 
direction  and  activity  are  wholly  at  the  control  of 
the  operator,  and  which  can  be  graduated  in  a hun- 
dred ways.  This  fertility  of  application,  and  the 
constant  correspondence  of  electricity  to  vital  states, 
must  be  considered  as  the  groundwork  of  its  med- 
ical use.  It  will  be  frequently  seen,  even  in  suc- 
cessful cases,  quoted  hereafter,  that  the  nature  of 
the  agent  and  the  laws  of  application  have  been 
imperfectly  understood;  and  many  of  the  failures 
which  have  occurred  must  be  ascribed  to  this 
source. 

68.  No  claim  will  be  made  for  electricity  as  an 
exclusive  medical  agent.  It  is  not  to  supersede, 
but  to  cooperate  with  other  treatment.  It  is  to  be 


DIRECTION  OF  CURRENT. 


55 


introduced  into  practice  with  discretion,  and  to  be 
expected  to  fail  under  the  same  conditions  with  other 
remedies,  either  from  its  own  inapplicability,  or  the 
want  of  knowledge  and  adaptation  in  the  operator. 

69.  The  outline  of  a large  number  of  cases  will 
be  given  in  connection  with  the  various  diseases  to 
which  electricity  has  been  applied.  Although  the 
objection  has  been  felt  of  omitting  many  of  the 
useful  details  of  cases,  which  could  not  be  included 
within  our  limits,  it  has  been  still  considered  advi- 
sable to  present  such  sketches  as  could  be  recog- 
nized, and  which  could,  where  desirable,  be  sought 
out  by  the  practitioner  for  himself.  It  may  here 
be  repeated,  that  many  of  the  applications  presented 
are  to  be  considered  experimental,  rather  than  as 
confirmed  modes  of  practice.  These  will  be  readily 
distinguished. 

70.  As  the  direction  of  the  current  is  one  of  the 
important  considerations,  it  will  be  remembered  that, 
with  the  battery,  the  pole  or  handle  connected  with 
the  platinum  plate  is  the  positive  pole,  or  the  enter- 
ing pole,  of  the  current,  as  regards  the  body  of  the 
patient,  and  the  handle  connected  with  the  zinc 
plate,  the  negative  pole.  With  the  electro-magnetic 
apparatus,  the  positive  pole  is  that  which  produces 
least  sensation  when  applied  to  an  equally  sensitive 
part  of  the  body  with  the  negative.  The  handles 
may  be  conveniently  distinguished  by  holding  them 
in  different  hands,  when  the  most  pain  and  con- 
traction will  be  felt  in  the  wrist  of  the  hand  grasp- 
ing the  negative  handle. 


56  NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 

71.  No  attempt  has  been  made,  in  this  section,  to 
group  the  diseases  in  a natural  order.  They  are 
simply  arranged  according  to  the  direction  and  char- 
acter of  the  treatment.  An  index  will  be  furnished 
at  the  end,  by  which  reference  can  readily  be  made 
to  any  special  subject.  The  word  “ electro-magnet- 
ism,  ” frequently  used,  will  be  understood  as  equiva- 
lent to  the  expression  “ electricity  from  the  electro- 
magnetic apparatus.” 

NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 

72.  Paralysis. — The  application  of  electricity 

to  paralysis,  which  was  one  of  the  earliest,  is  also 
one  of  the  most  important.  Its  remarkable  efficiency 
in  this  disease  has  been  limited  by  a want  of  dis- 
crimination and  resource,  which  we  can  as  yet  only 
imperfectly  supply.  Dr.  Golding  Bird  has  recently 
mentioned  the  following  forms  of  paralysis  as  those 
in  which  he  has  used  electro-magnetism  with  de- 
cided success:*  1.  Partial  paralysis  from  organic 
congestion  or  effusion,  which  has  been  removed. 
2.  Paralysis  of  the  portio  dura  of  the  seventh  pair, 
from  exposure  to  cold.  3.  Paralysis  of  a limb  from 
the  same  cause.  4.  Paralysis  of  one  side  of  the 
body,  or  a single  limb,  from  exhaustion,  as  from 
lactation,  flooding,  &c.  5.  Rheumatic  paraplegia. 

6.  Paraplegia  from  enervation,  as  in  the  case  of  the 
seamstresses  of  London.  Dr.  Bird  remarks,  that 
electricity,  though  not  universally  successful,  is  the 


* London  Lancet.  June,  1846. 


PARALYTIC  CONTRACTION. 


5? 


actual  curative  agent  in  some  of  these  forms,  that 
in  all  it  expedites  the  cure,  and  in  none  is  it  inju- 
rious. Cceteris  paribus , he  finds  it  most  successful  in 
proportion  to  the  acuteness  of  the  case.  In  chronic 
cases,  the  new  muscular  tissue  deposited  does  not 
stand  in  active  relation  to  the  nervous  system,  and 
time  is  required  to  establish  its  function.  Other 
forms  of  paralysis,  besides  those  specified,  as  that 
from  lead  colic,  will  be  found  to  have  yielded  to 
electricity,  in  the  cases  hereafter  quoted  by  Dr.  Bird. 

73.  All  practitioners  have  borne  testimony  to  the 
uselessness  of  electricity  during  the  existence  of 
structural  lesions,  from  which  paralysis,  in  any  case, 
proceeds.  Dr.  Bird  cautions  against  its  employment 
in  recent  or  even  persistent  organic  lesions,*  stating 
that  he  has  known  fatal  apoplexy  to  follow  the  use 
of  electricity  in  cases  of  ramollissement  of  the  brain, 
or  where  rigid  arteries  existed.  Medical  treatment, 
in  such  cases,  should  be  directed  to  the  original  cause 
of  the  paralysis,  and  the  effect  may  then  often  be 
rapidly  dissipated  by  electricity. 

74.  Dr.  Bird  states  that  he  has  never  seen  electrici- 
ty do  any  good  in  cases  of  rigid  flexure  of  the  thumb 
or  fingers.  Under  other  modes  of  electrical  applica- 
tion, we  find,  however,  that  paralytic  contraction  has 
been  successfully  combated.  This  is  illustrated  in 
the  following  case,  together  with  the  necessity,  in 
the  last  resort,  to  employ  the  higher  powers  of  the 
galvanic  battery.  A young  lady,  under  the  care  of 


* Loncl.  Med.  Gaz.  June,  1847. 


58 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


Dr.  Grapengiesser,*  was  attacked  with  apoplexy, 
succeeded  by  paralysis  of  the  right  side  and  loss  of 
speech.  Within  four  years,  she  recovered  the  use  of 
her  foot,  and  the  power  of  utterance  ; but  the  arm 
remained  contracted,  and  the  fingers  firmly  closed. 
“ Whenever  galvanism  was  employed,  this  stiffness 
of  the  elbows  and  fingers  disappeared  in  a moment, 
and  she  could  with  ease  stretch  the  fingers  and  arm  ; 
but  in  order  to  produce  this  effect,  a battery  of  one 
hundred  pairs  ivas  required .”  The  application  being 
continued  for  a short  time,  recovery,  though  not  per- 
fect, took  place.  4 

75.  It  must  not  be  supposed,  from  this  case,  that 
an  overpowering  application  of  electricity  is  required, 
or  allowable,  in  paralysis.  The  application  should 
be  made  with  care,  in  the  first  instance,  to  avoid  ex- 
haustion, and  be  increased,  according  to  the  sensibility 
of  the  patient  and  the  demands  of  the  case.  Where 
the  battery  is  used,  the  tendency  is  to  increase  the 
general  action  of  the  system,  and  depletion  must 
sometimes  be  resorted  to,  in  connection  with  it. 
Matteucci  recommends  commencing  always  with  a 
feeble  current,  which  should  be  frequently  inter- 
rupted, and  the  administration  not  too  much  pro- 
longed, the  patient  resting  after  twenty  or  thirty 
shocks.  He  approves  the  use  of  electro-magnetism, 
and  regards  the  interrupted  current  of  the  battery  as 
more  efficient  as  a stimulant  than  the  continued 
current. 


* Dub.  Quart.  J.  of  Med.  Sc.  Feb.  1847.  — Braithewaite,  Part  XV 


CURRENT  IN  PARALYSIS. 


59 


76.  Matteucci  has  shown , as  the  result  of  experi- 
ment,* that  the  electric  current,  passed  through  a 
nerve  in  the  direction  of  its  ramifications,  rapidly 
exhausts  its  excitability,  whilst  the  inverse  current 
increases  it.  An  exhaustion  of  contractile  power, 
amounting  to  temporary  paralysis,  may  be  occasioned 
in  the  frog,  by  the  persistent  use  of  the  direct  current 
of  the  battery.  Regarding  some  cases  of  paralysis  as 
a similar  exhaustion  of  nervous  power,  the  employ- 
ment of  the  inverse  current  is  therefore  indicated. 
This  is  fully  borne  out  by  experience.  The  direc- 
tion of  the  current  in  different  conditions  of  paralysis, 
as  in  nerves  of  motion  or  sensation,  or  in  the  origin, 
course,  or  expansion  of  the  same  nerve,  still,  how- 
ever, requires  much  additional  investigation. 

77.  It  has  been  stated,  inferentially,  that  a nerve 
propagates  the  influence  of  an  electric  current  only 
in  the  direction  of  its  own  nervous  current  ($  47). 
Hence  the  impression  of  an  electric  current,  sent  in 
the  direction  of  the  brain,  or  the  nerve  centre  of  any 
nerve,  is  transmitted  by  the  nerves  of  sensation, 
while  the  influence  of  an  electric  current,  sent  toward 
the  extremities  or  surface  of  the  body,  is  transmitted 
by  the  nerves  of  motion,  or  corresponding  organic 
nerves.  Nevertheless,  the  nerves  of  motion  are,  as  a 
general  rule,  more  permanently  stimulated  in  their 
functions  by  sending  a current  in  the  inverse  direc- 
tion toward  the  nerve  centre.  This  is  apparently  an 
excito-motory  influence  through  the  stimulus  propa- 


Medico-Chirurg.  Rev.  April,  1845.  — London  Lancet.  Aug.  1847. 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


gated  to  the  nerve  centre,  and  thence  reacting  on  the 
associated  nerves  of  motion.  It  would,  therefore,  in 
cases  of  organic  lesion,  inflammation,  or  irritation  of 
the  nerve  centres,  be  especially  improper  to  send  the 
current  in  their  direction.  On  the  other  hand,  in  pas- 
sive conditions  of  the  nerve  centres,  after  lesions  al- 
ready cured,  the  electric  current  should  be  directed 
toward  them,  through  the  paralyzed  parts.  A current 
passed,  for  a short  distance,  through  a nerve,  is  suf- 
ficient to  propagate  its  impression  through  the  whole 
extent  of  the  nerve.  Thus,  in  the  little  finger,  if  a* 
shock  be  passed  through  a single  joint,  it  is  felt  to 
the  shoulder,  and  occasions  contraction  through  the 
whole  arm. 

78.  Dr.  Dewees,  in  the  New  York  Journal  of  Med- 
icine,* states,  as  the  result  of  his  experience,  that  in 
paralysis  resulting  from  the  lesion  of  organic  nerves, 
or  when  nutrition  is  deficient,  the  current  of  the  bat- 
tery, which  he  prefers,  in  all  cases,  should  be  sent 
in  the  direction  opposite  to*  the  ramification  of  the 
nerves,  but  that,  in  “ muscular  paralysis,' ” it  should 
be  sent  in  the  same  direction  with  the  ramifications 
of  the  nerves.  He  recommends  the  continued  bat- 
tery current,  where  it  is  desirable  to  exercise  an  or- 
ganizing power  over  the  muscles,  and  a resort  to  the 
interrupted  current,  when  stimulation  and  exercise 
of  the  nerve  and  muscle  are  desired. 

79.  Dr.  J.  Reid  has  recently  made  experiments! 
to  show  the  effect  of  muscular  exercise  in  preserving 


* N.  Y.  Jour,  of  Med.  May,  1847. 
t Ed.  Month.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sc.  May,  1841. 


EXCITABILITY  IN  PARALYSIS.  61 

the  nutrition  and  excitability  of  a paralyzed  limb. 
The  spinal  nerves  of  a frog  were  cut  across  so  as  to 
paralyze  the  posterior  extremities.  The  muscles  of 
one  of  these  were  daily  exercised  by  a weak  battery, 
while  those  of  the  other  remained  quiescent.  The 
exercised  limb,  at  the  end  of  two  months,  remained 
of  its  original  size  and  firmness,  contracting  vigorous- 
ly, while  the  other  limb  had  shrunk  to  one  half  of 
its  previous  size,  still  preserving,  however,  some 
contractility.  Dr.  Bird  remarks,  “ From  want  of 
exercise,  the  muscles  of  the  affected  limb  become 
atrophied.5’  Before  this  takes  place,  u the  power  of 
electricity  is  very  remarkable,  frequently  restoring 
power  to  the  paralyzed  muscles  in  a very  short 
time.55*  Not  less  efficient,  however,  is  electricity, 
as  we  have  seen  above,  in  giving  the  required  exer- 
cise, and  preserving  the  organization  of  the  paralyzed 
muscle.  For  this  purpose,  the  electro-magnetic 
shocks  are  best  adapted.  The  hand  of  the  operator 
may  be  used  as  one  conductor  (§  38),  and  the  con- 
traction of  each  individual  muscle  will  follow  the 
touch  of  the  finger  to  the  surface  of  the  affected  limb. 

80.  Dr.  Marshall  Hall  has  stated  that  the  electric 
excitability  of  muscles  in  paralysis  from  cerebral 
lesions  is  increased,  but  that  in  paralysis  from  spinal 
lesions  it  is  diminished.  This  has  been  recently 
denied  by  Dr.  Todd,  in  a paper  in  the  Medico-Chi- 
rurgical  Transactions  of  1847,  who,  from  a large 
number  of  observations,  arrives  at  the  following 


Guy’s  Hospital  Reports,  1841. 

6 


62 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


conclusions  : 1.  The  irritability  of  paralyzed  muscles 
is  in  direct  relation  to  their  state  of  nutrition.  2.  It 
vanes  with  the  condition  of  their  nerves  more  than 
with  that  of  the  muscles  themselves.  3.  In  a ma- 
jority of  cases  of  cerebral  palsy,  the  contractility  of 
the  paralyzed  muscles  is  less  than  that  of  the  muscles 
of  the  sound  side,  on  account  of  diminished  nutrition. 
4.  No  diagnostic  mark  to  distinguish  cerebral  from 
spinal  paralysis  can  be  based  on  any  difference  in  the . 
irritability  of  the  muscles.  5.  The  irritability  of 
paralyzed  muscles,  under  the  influence  of  galvanism, 
is  an  index  to  the  state  of  their  nerves. 

81.  Mr.  John  Grantham,  in  a work  recently  pub- 
lished in  England, # gives  the  following,  among  other 
conclusions : The  galvanic  influence  will  be  most 
active  in  the  paralyzed  limb,  when  passed  along  the 
spine.  It  restores  diminished  temperature,  decreased 
circulation,  and  lost  muscular  action,  in  the  order  in 
which  they  are  here  written.  It  has  no  effect  in 
disease  that  alters  the  structure  of  nerves.  It  is  as- 
sisted by  immersion  of  the  affected  limb  in  a warm 
bath,  into  which  one  of  the  poles  is  plunged.  It  is 
injurious  when  much  pain  is  caused  in  the  muscles 
by  its  application.  It  may  be  carried  to  an  undue 
extent,  so  as  to  produce  congestion  of  the  brain. 

82.  In  the  valuable  report  on  the  use  of  electrici- 
ty in  Guy’s  Hospital,!  Dr.  Golding  Bird  cites  a large 
number  of  cases  of  paralysis  treated  by  this  agent. 
In  these,  machine  electricity,  in  the  form  of  the  spark 


* Medico- Chirurg.  Rev.  Jan.  1845. 
f Guy’s  Hospital  Reports.  April,  1841. 


DROPPED  HANDS. 


63 


and  shock  (<§>  13),  was  for  the  most  part  employed. 
Dr.  Bird,  however,  in  his  concluding  remarks,  gives 
the  decided  preference,  in  paralysis,  especially  in 
chronic  cases,  to  electro-magnetism.  The  interest- 
ing results,  from  the  use  of  the  spark,  still  deserve 
attention.  Dr.  Bird  makes  the  general  remark,  that 
in  paralysis  from  rheumatism  or  cold,  from  functional 
affections,  or  the  effect  of  lesions  previously  cured, 
he  has  found  the  application  of  electricity  most  suc- 
cessful ; hut  that  he  has  found  it  of  no  effect  in  cases 
of  persistent  structural  lesions.  Many  cases  in  which 
electricity  had  been  found  useless,  were  submitted 
to  post  mortem  examination,  and,  in  all,  permanent 
causes  of  paralysis  were  discovered. 

83.  Dropped  Hands.  — Eleven  cases  are  given,  by 
Dr.  Bird,  of  dropped  hands,  mostly  connected  with 
colica  pictonum , in  which  five  were  cured,  three 
were  relieved,  one  improved,  and  two  received  no 
benefit.  Sparks  were  generally  drawn  from  the 
upper  part  of  the  spine,  while  the  patient  was  seated 
on  the  insulating  stool,  in  order  to  influence  the  axil- 
lary plexus.  Medical  treatment  was  also  directed  to 
associated  complaints  of  the  patients.  The  details 
of  four  of  these  may  be  summed  up  as  follows  : — 

I.  A compositor,  aged  19.  Paralysis  of  extensors 
of  both  hands,  with  amaurosis,  preceded  by  an  attack 
of  lead  colic.  After  four  months  of  interrupted  treat- 
ment, the  paralysis  was  cured,  but  the  amaurosis 
remained,  though  the  pupils,  previously  nearly  insen- 
sible, contracted  and  dilated  readily. 

TI.  A cooper,  aged  29,  with  recent  and  complete 


64 


N E RVO US  SYSTEM. 


paralysis  of  extensors.  Weak  shocks,  from  the  spine 
down  the  arm.  Within  a month,  able  to  resume  his 
work. 

III.  A painter,  aged  27.  Complete  paralysis  of 
extensors.  In  fifteen  days  discharged,  well. 

IV.  A plumber,  aged  36,  with  total  paralysis  of 
the  extensors,  of  a year’s  standing.  Shocks  down 
the  arms  on  alternate  days.  No  improvement  after 
twenty  days.  Sparks  ordered  to  be  drawn  from 
the  spine.  In  sixteen  days,  great  improvement,  and 
soon  able  to  resume  work. 

Dr.  Bird  states  that  in  chronic  cases  of  this  form 
of  paralysis,  sparks  from  the  spine  are  very  often 
effectual,  when  shocks  to  the  arms  are  of  no  avail. 

84.  Rheumatic  Paralysis . — In  paralysis  from 
rheumatism  or  exposure  to  cold,  Dr.  Bird  speaks  of 
the  remarkable  influence  of  electricity,  before  wasting 
of  the  muscles  has  taken  place.  In  ten  cases  given 
by  him,  five  were  cured,  three  improved,  and  in  two 
there  was  no  relief.  Those  reported  in  detail  may 
be  summed  up  as  follows  : — 

I.  A boy,  of  15  years,  with  paralysis  of  motion  of 
right  arm,  preceded  by  pain  and  swelling  of  neck. 
Medical  treatment  for  nine  months,  without  benefit. 
Twelve  shocks  daily,  from  the  Leyden  jar,  to  be 
passed  from  the  cervical  vertebrae  to  the  fingers.  In 
two  months  discharged,  cured. 

II.  A sailor,  aged  32.  Paralysis  of  right  arm  and 
both  hands,  from  cold  affusion  in  fever.  Sparks  to 
be  drawn  from  spine  and  paralyzed  muscles  thrice  a 
week.  In  seven  weeks  discharged,  cured 


PARALYSIS. 


05 


III.  A man,  aged  38,  with  entire  paralysis  of 
motion  of  right  leg,  following  rheumatism.  Sparks 
alternate  days,  from  the  lumbar  vertebras  and  limb. 
In  six  weeks  discharged,  cured. 

IV.  A man,  aged  30,  with  paralysis  of  motion  of 
both  hands,  from  effects  of  cold  water.  Sparks  from 
spine  and  hands.  After  a few  applications,  returned 
to  his  work. 

85.  Paralysis  from  various  Causes.  — Dr.  Bird 
groups  together  twelve  cases  of  paraplegia,  hemi- 
plegia, and  partial  paralysis,  from  various  causes,  treat- 
ed in  Guy’s  Hospital,  excluding  those  with  coexistent 
structural  lesions.  The  result  was,  no  relief  in  four 
cases,  relief  in  two,  cure  in  six.  Details  of  seven  of 
these  cases  may  be  condensed  as  follows  : — 

I.  A man,  aged  30,  with  hemiplegia  of  right  side, 
of  nine  months’  standing,  from  a fall,  in  which  he 
struck  his  head.  Paralysis  partial.  Dec.  1837, 
shocks  to  be  passed  twice  a week  from  spine  down 
leg  and  arm.  April  3,  1838,  cured. 

II.  A woman,  aged  26,  with  paraplegia,  following 
a recent  apoplectic  attack.  After  several  months’ 
medical  treatment,  condition  improved.  Sparks  or- 
dered from  the  lumbar  vertebrae  and  legs.  Rapid 
recovery  ensued. 

III.  A woman,  aged  52,  with  partial  paralysis  of 
motion  and  feeling  of  right  arm.  Under  common 
treatment  for  three  months,  sensation  had  improved. 
Dec.  20,  electro-magnetic  current  ordered  from  neck 
to  fingers  thrice  a week.  Jan.  20,  1840,  motion 
much  improved.  Feb.  20,  comnletftlv  well. 

6 * 


66 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


IV.  A waiter,  aged  46,  with  paralysis  of  motion 
of  right  half  of  the  body,  with  some  loss  of  sensa- 
tion, of  three  months’  standing.  . Sept.  22,  twelve 
shocks,  on  alternate  days,  down  back  and  limbs. 
Oct.  31,  numbness  of  only  one  finger  remaining. 
Returned  to  his  work. 

V.  A boy,  of  11  years,  with  complete  paralysis  of 
motion  on  the  right  side,  of  seven  weeks’  standing. 
Sparks  were  drawn  from  spine  and  limbs.  After 
first  application,  walked  back  into  the  ward  with  the 
aid  of  a stick.  In  a few  days,  completely  cured. 

VI.  A smith,  aged  22,  with  recent  complete  pa- 
ralysis of  motion  of  right  arm.  Aug.  4,  sparks  to 
be  drawn  from  the  upper  part  of  the  spine  and 
arm.  Sept.  1,  cured. 

VII.  A coal  porter,  with  paralysis  of  right  arm  and 
face.  Nov.  29,  sparks  from  spine,  face,  and  arm. 
Dec.  24,  arm  cured.  Electro-magnetic  shocks  to 
face  in  direction  of  branches  of  fifth  pair.  Jan.  10, 
much  improved,  and  returned  to  work. 

86.  Paralysis  from  Local  Injury.  — Dr.  Bird  re- 
lates four  cases,  in  two  of  which  there  was  structural 
lesion  of  the  nerves,  and  no  benefit  resulted  from 
electricity.  The  other  two  are  as  follows  : — 

I.  A shoemaker,  aged  50,  fell  with  his  left  arm 
bent  under  him.  Complete  paralysis  of  sensation 
and  motion  ensued.  After  three  weeks,  on  June  27, 
feeble  shocks  were  ordered  from  the  neck  to  the 
fingers.  July  13,  upper  part  of  the  arm  restored ; 
numbness  still  in  the  fore-arm.  July  17,  sufficiently 
recovered  to  resume  work. 


HYSTERICAL  PARALYSIS.  67 

# 

II.  A muscular  man,  of  60,  with  partia.  paralysis 
of  left  arm  from  a fall,  injuring  the  shoulder,  six 
weeks  before.  Nov.  12,  sparks  ordered  from  the 
shoulder.  Dec.  3,  considerably  improved,  and  ceased 
to  attend. 

87.  Limited  Paralysis . — In  these  cases,  Dr.  Bird 
has  found  electricity  generally  successful.  A gen- 
tleman, aged  about  40,  applied  to  him  on  account  of 
gradual  loss  of  power  in  the  flexors  of  the  left  fore- 
arm. He  found  the  biceps  remarkably  atrophied,  but 
the  brachialis  antichus  in  its  usual  condition.  Strych- 
nia was  applied  to  a blistered  surface  over  the  mus- 
cle 'with  very  little  spasmodic  excitement.  Electro- 
magnetic shocks  were  then  passed  from  the  cervical 
vertebras  to  the  belly  of  the  muscle.  During  several 
weeks,  power  gradually  returned  to  the  muscle, 
and  the  arm  was  restored  ultimately  to  its  original 
strength. 

88.  Hysterical  Paralysis.  — In  this  affection,  in 
which  it  is  difficult  always  to  separate  simulated 
from  actual  paralysis,  Dr.  Bird  has  yet  seen  recov- 
ery, under  electrical  treatment,  in  undoubted  cases, 
of  which  the  following  is  an  example  : A girl,  aged 
15,  of  florid  appearance,  with  complete  paralysis  of 
the  lower  extremities,  following  an  hysteric  attack. 
After  six  months,  when  admitted,  she  had  regained 
slight  power  of  motion  of  the  toes.  Menstruation 
regular,  but  painful.  Oct.  6,  shocks  were  ordered 
from  the  sacrum  to  the  toes  daily.  Oct.  18,  no 
remains  of  paralysis.  Oct.  23,  presented  cured. 

89.  Dr.  Addison  furnishes  another  case  of  a girl, 


68 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


aged  16,  at  Guy’s  Hospital,*  who,  as  a consequence 
of  suppression  of  the  catamenia,  was  attacked  with 
an  hysterical  paroxysm  terminating  in  coldness  and 
paralysis  of  the  left  side,  involving  amaurosis  of  the 
left  eye.  After  sparks  were  drawn  for  the  first  time 
from  the  spinal  column,  she  could  bend  the  fingers 
of  her  left  hand.  In  ten  days,  she  could  walk  with- 
out difficulty.  Shocks  were  also  passed  through  the 
pelvis.  In  seven  weeks,  the  catamenia  reappeared, 
and  her  general  health  was  restored,  but  the  eye 
remained  amaurotic. 

90.  In  hysterical  paralysis,  where  there  is  any 
tendency  to  spasm,  as  in  other  spasmodic  affections, 
electricity,  in  the  form  of  the  shock,  may  produce 
excitement  and  irregular  action,  as  the  writer  has  had 
occasion,  in  a single  case,  to  observe.  The  unin- 
terrupted current  from  the  battery,  or  the  spark, 
though  the  latter  is  generally  less  efficient,  should 
be  resorted  to  under  such  circumstances. 

91.  Mr.  John  Grantham,  in  two  papers  f giving 
some  general  views  of  the  action  of  galvanism, 
relates  the  following  cases  of  paralysis  and  nervous 
atony,  subjected  to  that  agent. 

I.  A block  printer,  aged  52,  with  partial  paralysis 
and  neuralgia  of  the  right  fore-arm.  Galvanism,  from 
a battery  of  forty  pairs,  was  passed  through  the 
arm,  a flannel  roller  applied  from  the  wrist  to  the 
shoulder,  and  the  patient  ivas  directed  frequently  to 
swing  a six-pound  weight  in  the  hand.  Heat  and 

* Guy’s  Hospital  Reports.  Oct.  1837. 
f Lon.  Med.  Gaz.  Apr.  1837.  and  Dec.  183&- 


PARALYSIS. 


69 


sensibility  increased  daily  daring  the  action  of  the 
galvanism.  In  five  or  six  weeks  he  was  cured. 
Stimulants  and  other  treatment  had  been  previously 
tried  ineffectually.  A similar  case  is  given  where  a 
cure  was  obtained  simply  by  medical  treatment  and 
exercise  of  the  arm,  as  above. 

II.  A shoemaker,  aged  47,  with  paralysis  of  the 
extensor  muscles  of  the  fore-arm,  attended  with  cold- 
ness and  neuralgic  pains.  Stimulants  were  found  of 
no  avail.  Ptyalism  gave  some  relief  to  the  pain,  but 
none  to  the  paralysis.  Galvanism  from  twenty-four 
pairs,  directed  from  the  shoulder  to  the  hand  for  three 
weeks,  effected  a cure,  with  the  exception  of  numb- 
ness of  the  tip  of  the  middle  finger. 

III.  A woman,  aged  36,  with  health  generally 
deranged,  — painful  sensibility  to  light,  eyelids  in 
constant  action,  conjunctiva  inflamed,  iris  nearly 
immovable,  bowels  torpid,  secretions  deficient,  skin 
cold  and  dry.  The  cerebral  and  digestive  derange- 
ments yielded  to  mercurial  treatment,  and  in  five 
weeks,  under -the  use  of  galvanism  from  eighteen 
pairs,  passed  from  the  back  of  the  head  to  the  exit 
of  the  orbitar  nerves ; the  affection  of  the  eye,  and 
the  coldness  of  the  surface,  were  essentially  removed, 
so  that  the  patient  returned  to  her  occupation. 

IV.  A woman,  aged*  29,  was  attacked,  in  1835, 
with  hemiplegia  of  the  left  side,  and  partially  relieved 
under  a depletory  and  mercurial  treatment.  She  was 
seized  again,  in  1837,  with  a painful  spasmodic  action 
of  the  left  arm,  which  was  relieved  by  medical  treat- 
ment, but  subsided  into  paralysis.  Galvanism,  being 


70 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


applied  to  the  arm,  produced  cerebral  congestion,  and 
was  abandoned.  A further  attack  took  place  in 
1838,  accompanied  with  menorrhagia,  which  latter 
yielded  to  the  usual  remedies.  Electricity  from 
twelve  galvanic  pairs,  again  resorted  to,  and  passed 
through  the  arm,  proved  very  irregular  in  its  effects. 
The  current  was  then  passed  from  the  lumbar  verte- 
brae to  the  left  foot,  by  means  of  a hot  foot-bath.  A 
very  powerful  effect  was  thus  produced  on  the  left 
arm,  through  the  medium,  as  Dr.  Grantham  conjec- 
tures, of  the  grand  sympathetic  nerve.  Mercury  and 
carbonate  of  iron  were  given  at  the  same  time,  under 
which  treatment  she  shortly  recovered  the  use  of  the 
arm,  though  only  partially  of  the  fingers. 

V.  A clerk  of  the  ordnance  department,  with 
hemiplegia,  the  result  of  rupture  of  the  tendo  achillis 
and  subsequent  treatment  several  years  before.  Pulse 
in  right  radial  artery,  eighty-six ; in  left  radial  artery, 
seventy-four.  By  depletion  and  mercurial  action,  the 
general  health  was  improved.  Galvanism  from  forty- 
eight  pairs  was  then  passed  from  the  head,  neck,  and 
spine,  to  the  left  foot  in  the  bath.  In  ten  days,  the 
warmth  of  the  surface  gradually  returned ; the  pulse 
then  rose.  On  the  thirteenth  day,  muscular  action 
was  rapidly  developed.  Later,  some  cerebral  con- 
gestion occurred,  which  was  relieved  by  depletion. 
In  one  month,  galvanism  was  suspended,  the  patient 
being  able  to  walk  with  a cane  and  crutch ; and  two 
months  later,  he  returned  to  his  occupation,  still  with 
some  slight  deficiency  in  the  muscular  power  of  the 
arm  and  leg. 


LOCAL  PARALYSIS. 


71 


92.  M.  Marianini  reports  several  cases  of  paral- 
ysis* treated  by  the  battery  in  the  following  way: 
The  first,  a young  lady,  was  suddenly  seized  with 
paralysis  of  both  lower  extremities.  After  fifty  days 
of  ineffectual  medical  treatment,  galvanism  was 
resorted  to.  The  positive  conducting  wire,  from  a 
battery  of  fifty-eight  small  pairs  of  copper  and  zinc, 
was  carried  round  one  of  the  paralyzed  limbs,  and 
the  negative  was  brought  in  contact  with  tin  foil, 
placed  on  the  instep.  One  hundred  and  fifty  con- 
tacts, occasioning  slight  shocks,  were  administered 
to  each  limb ; and  also  the  constant  current  was 
allowed  to  flow  for  some  minutes.  One  of  the  wires 
was  also  touched  to  the  skin,  at  particular  points, 
occasioning  a prickling  sensation  — the  first  which 
had  been  perceived.  After  three  days,  the  number 
of  pairs  was  increased  to  seventy-five,  and  afterwards 
to  a hundred  pairs  of  feeble  strength.  After  twelve 
sittings,  decided  improvement  appeared,  and  in  six 
more  there  was  a perfect  cure.  The  second  case 
was  a woman,  aged  29,  who  had  suffered,  for  four 
years,  from  partial  paralysis  of  the  left  side.  She 
was  electrified  forty  times,  in  the  course  of  two 
months,  with  some  improvement,  which  continued 
without  further  use  of  the  agent,  so  that,  twenty 
months  after,  both  sides  were  equally  strong.  Five 
other  cases  are  referred  to,  in  which  the  same  treat- 
ment proved  successful. 

93.  Local  Paralysis.  — Dr.  J.  M.  Neligan.f  who  has 

* Revue  Med.  (Jan.  1833,)  from  An.  Univ.  di  Med.  di  Milano. 

t Month.  J.  of  Med.  Sc.  Apr.  1846.  — Braithewaite,  Part  XIII. 


72 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM, 


recently  used  electro-magnetism,  states  that  he  has 
found  no  benefit  in  paralysis  referable  to  the  brain  or 
spinal  marrow,  but  great  advantage  in  local  paralysis, 
as  from  the  action  of  lead,  from  exposure  to  cold,  or 
from  pressure  upon  a nerve.  The  following  cases 
are  given : — 

I.  A girl,  of  9 years,  with  paralysis  of  the  right 
sterno-mastoid  muscle,  from  inflammation  of  the  cer- 
vical fascia,  causing  wry  neck.  After  three  weeks’ 
treatment  with  iron,  directed  to  the  general  health, 
electro-magnetism  was  applied  to  the  paralyzed 
muscle.  After  three  or  four  applications,  a decided 
amendment  was  visible ; the  muscle  regained  its 
power,  and  the  head  gradually*assumed  its  natural 
position,  the  application  being  continued  from  De- 
cember, 1843,  to  May,  1844. 

II.  A case  of  painter’s  colic,  succeeded  by  almost 
complete  paralysis  of  the  muscles  of  both  fore-arms. 
On  the  first  application,  the  hands  of  the  patient  im- 
mediately closed  on  the  conductor.  In  four  weeks 
of  daily  application  of  half  an  hour  each  time,  he 
was  completely  cured. 

III.  A sailor,  with  paralysis  of  u the  right  shoul- 
der,” from  the  effects  of  damp.  Blisters  and  moxas 
had  been  applied  without  benefit.  After  ten  days’ 
application  of  electricity,  he  could  use  the  arm  nearly 
as  well  as  ever.  Dr.  Neligan  adds  that,  in  some 
apoplectic  cases,  he  has  found  electricity  prove  abso- 
lutely injurious  by  its  effects  in  hastening  the  circu- 
lation. 

94.  Partial  Paralysis  of  the  Face. — H Montault, 


PARALYSIS. 


73 


in  the  Revue  Medicale  of  January,  1830,  gives  an  ac- 
count. of  paralysis  of  the  portio  dura  of  the  right  side 
of  the  face,  with  which  he  had  been  afflicted.  Active 
treatment  was  immediately  resorted  to  — depletion, 
local  irritants,  &c.  In  a week,  the  symptoms  had  ag- 
gravated, pronunciation  and  deglutition  being  almost 
impossible.  Electricity  was  then  administered  by 
MM.  Sarlandiere  and  Pictionniere.  Thet  sparks, 
brush,  and  shock  of  the  machine  were  .employed, 
followed  by  galvano-puncture,  several  needles  being 
passed  into  the  face,  and  the  current  transmitted 
in  the  course  of  the  facial  nerve  and  its  branches. 
Thirty  pairs  were  employed  for  the  space  of  twenty 
to  thirty  minutes  each  time.  The  right  eye  com- 
menced to  close  after  the  second  application,  and 
a cure  was  effected  by  the  sixth,  eleven  days  from 
the  commencement. 

95.  A writer  in  the  Revue  Medico- Chirurgicale  of 
December,  1847,*  referring  to  a number  of  failures 
in  the  use  of  electricity  for  paralysis,  of  which  the 
details  are  not  given,  calls  attention  to  the  agent,  not 
for  its  general  efficacy,  but  for  its  remarkable  action 
in  some  cases  where  other  remedies  are  insufficient. 
He  details  a case  of  facial  paralysis  successfully 
treated  by  galvano-puncture,  and  apparently  similar 
to  another  case  in  which  the  same  treatment  had  no 
effect.  A young  woman,  of  20,  was  affected  with 
paralysis  of  the  right  side  of  the  face,  as  a conse- 
quence of  fright,  to  the  extent  of  unconsciousness. 


* Nouv.  Encyelog.  des  Sc.  Med.  Dec.  1847. 

7 


74 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM 


She  was  unable  to  shut  the  right  eyelid,  and  suffered 
the  usual  distortions,  the  saliva  escaping  involuntarily 
from  the  mouth.  For  several  months,  every  variety 
of  treatment  was  resorted  to  without  result.  At 
length,  acu-puncture,  with  from  thirty  to  forty-five 
small  pairs,  was  employed,  at  first  daily ; afterwards 
every  two  days.  The  needles  were  inserted  in  dif- 
ferent parts  of  the  face.  Severe  pain,  contractions, 
secretion  .of  tears,  and  suffusion  and  perspiration  of 
parts  traversed  by  the  current,  ensued.  This  was 
continued  for  three  months,  at  the  end  of  which 
time  the  patient  retained  hardly  a trace  of  the  dis- 
order. It  may  be  remarked,  that  this  application 
seems  to  have  been  unnecessarily  severe,  and  that 
over-stimulation,  from  so  many  pairs,  may  have 
retarded  the  cure.  It  may  also  be  observed,  that  the 
cases  referred  to  as  unamenable  to  electricity  may 
have  depended  upon  persistent  organic  lesions. 

96.  Paraplegia.  — Dr.  Turtelli  relates  a case  of 
paraplegia,*  following  six  months  after  cerebral  in- 
flammation. Energetic  diuretics  were  administered, 
also  nux  vomica,  but  without  success.  The  shock 
from  thirty  pairs  of  plates  was  passed  from  the  hand 
to  the  foot  of  the  patient.  The  intensity  being  too 
great,  and  causing  pain  in  the  head,  thirst,  and  anx- 
iety, the  number  of  plates  was  reduced  to  twenty. 
Contact  was  made  thirty  times.  Improvement  mani- 
fested itself  at  the  second  application ; and  by  the 
seventh,  the  paralysis  had  entirely  disappeared. 


* Revue  Med.  May,  1825. 


PARAPLEGIA. 


75 


97.  In  the  Gazette  Medicate  de  Paris  of  1848,* 
Dr.  Constantin  James  gives  the  details  of  a very  in- 
teresting case  of  paraplegia,  occasioned  by  the  patient, 
a girl  of  17,  falling  forwards  at  full  length,  while 
walking  in  a corridor.  She  first  complained  of  pain 
in  the  knees,  and  subsequent  weakness.  Local  and 
general  treatment  was  resorted  to  without  effect,  and 
then  the  waters  of  Neris  were  prescribed,  at  which 
place  she  remained  for  six  months.  Complete  para- 
plegia ensued.  On  her  return  to  Paris,  powerful 
treatment  was  addressed  to  the  vertebral  column,  but 
with  slight  benefit.  At  length,  after  three  years  from 
the  first  accident,  M.  James  recommended  electro- 
magnetism. At  this  time,  the  lower  extremities  could 
not  be  raised  from  -the  bed,  and  were  sensibly  wasted, 
without,  however,  muscular  atrophy.  The  first  ap- 
plication was  made  very  cautiously;  the  negative  han- 
dle being  placed  over  the  first  of  the  lumbar  vertebrae, 
the  positive  handle  over  the  head  of  the  tibia,  suc- 
cessively, of  both  limbs.  At  the  end  of  eight  appli- 
cations, there  was  a notable  improvement.  Elec- 
tro-puncture was  then  resorted  to,  by  introducing  a 
needle,  which  was  connected  with  the  negative  con- 
ductor, sufficiently  deep  into  the  middle  and  posterior 
part  of  the  lumbar  region.  At  the  twentieth  appli- 
cation, the  patient  was  able  to  take  some  steps,  with 
the  use  of  a cane.  A needle  was  subsequently  in- 
serted in  each  limb,  a little  below  the  head  of  the  tibia. 
During  the  menstrual  periods,  and  in  case  of  any 

* Nouv.  Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  (March,  1848,)  from  Gaz.  Med. 
de  Paris.  1848. 


76 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


nervous  excitement,  the  application  was  interrupted. 
In  four  months  the  cure  was  completed,  and  the 
treatment  discontinued.  The  patient,  since  married, 
has  remained  permanently  well. 

98.  The  author  remarks,  that  application  of  elec- 
tricity should  not  be  made  during  existing  lesions  of 
the  spinal  column.  In  doubtful  cases  it  should  be 
employed.  One  of  his  associates,  Dr.  A.,  was  at- 
tacked with  all  the  symptoms  of  spinal  lesion,  com- 
plete paraplegia  existing,  incontractility  of  sphincters, 
partial  paralysis  of  upper  extremities,  irregular  action 
of  the  muscles  of  respiration  and  of  the  throat,  and 
perceptible  strabismus.  Cauteries  applied  to  the 
spine  were  ineffectual.  The  third  application  of 
electricity,  however,  produced  amelioration,  and  in  a 
few  months  the  patient  was  convalescent. 

99.  M.  James  guards  against  too  rapidly  reversing 
the  direction  of  the  current,  as  producing  too  great 
commotion,  without  benefiting  the  patient.  This 
mode  of  application  would  have  a place,  however,  in 
cases  of  great  inaction.  He  objects  to  using  a con- 
tinuous application,  and  prefers  the  intermittent  mode 
of  administration,  particularly  avoiding  an  excessive 
use  of  the  agent.  Matteucci  has  pointed  out  the  en-4 
tire  exhaustion  of  nervous  power,  similar  to  paralysis, 
resulting  from  an  excessive  use  of  electricity.  If  the 
improvement  appears  to  come  to  an  end,  M.  James 
recommends  the  discontinuance  of  the  agent  for  a 
week  or  two.  The  progress  is  then  usually  renewed. 
During  the  treatment,  the  patient  should  be  placed 
upon  a strengthening  regimen,  with  tonics,  friction, 


HEMIPLEGIA. 


77 


exercise  to  the  muscles,  &c.  Cold  should  be  guard- 
ed against. 

100.  The  time  of  cure  of  facial  paralysis,  with  M. 
James,  is  stated  to  have  been  sometimes  eight  or  ten 
days,  or  even  in  so  short  a space  as  five ; but  para- 
plegia was  rarely  cured  before  several  weeks. 

101.  Hemiplegia . — A young  woman,  in  the  care 
of  M.  Hoering,  of  Heilbronn,*  was  affected  with 
hemiplegia  and  difficult  utterance,  as  a consequence 
of  apoplexy.  A galvanic  current  was  passed  through 
the  larynx,  from  side  to  side,  and  also  through  the 
cervical  vertebras  and  the  tongue.  Speech,  and  also 
motion  of  the  paralyzed  limbs,  were  soon  essentially 
benefited. 

102.  M.  Bermond,  of  Bourdeaux,f  relates  a case  of 
hemiplegia,  following  apoplexy,  in  a lady,  aged  26,  in 
which  the  Leyden  jar  was  successfully  employed. 
After  three  months’  medical  treatment,  the  hemi- 
plegia remained  nearly  complete.  The  memory  was 
slightly  impaired,  and  there  was  unusual  nervous 
irritability.  At  the  first  sitting,  shocks  from  the  jar 
were  passed  from  the  hand  to  the  foot  of  the  affected 
side.  After  fifty  moderate  shocks,  considerable  im- 
provement manifested  itself.  After  the  fourth  sitting, 
twelve  days  later,  the  patient  took  some  steps.  At 
the  tenth  sitting,  seven  weeks  from  the  commence- 
ment, the  patient  walked  to  the  office  of  M.  Ber- 
mond. After  the  eleventh  application,  a week  later, 
the  cure  might  be  considered  as  almost  complete. 

* Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  June,  1847. 

t Revue  Med.  '(June,  1831,)  from  Jour,  de  Med.  de  Bourdeaux. 

7* 


78 


NE  RV OU  S SYSTEM. 


The  shocks  were  increased  in  number,  towards  the 
close,  and  directed  sometimes  to  a single  limb,  or  to 
the  tongue.  This  case,  of  which  the  details  are  giv- 
en, would  seem  to  have  been  one  of  unusual  discour- 
agement. 

103.  Madame  B.,#  aged  56,  in  full  health,  was 
attacked  with  apoplexy,  resulting  in  hemiplegia  of 
the  left  side,  which  remained  after  relief  of  the  pri- 
mary disease.  Speech  was  difficult,  the  saliva  con- 
stantly escaping  from  the  corner  of  the  mouth. 
Taste  and  hearing  were  slightly  affected,  deglutition 
difficult,  the  bladder  distended,  constipation  at  first 
obstinate,  cramps  in  the  paralyzed  limbs  frequent  for 
the  first  fifteen  days.  (Edema  at  length  appeared 
throughout  the  left  side.  After  a month,  a slight 
improvement  had  taken  place  in  other  respects,  when 
electricity  was  applied  by  M.  Bermond.  After  the 
first  application,  Madame  B.  was  able  to  stand,  and 
even  to  stoop  slightly  and  recover  the  erect  position. 
On  the  following  day,  the  features  had  become  more 
regular,  the  hearing  had  improved,  the  oedema  di- 
minished, and  an  abundant  perspiration  had  visited 
the  limbs  on  the  left  side.  The  application  was 
then  repeated.  The  circulation  increased  in  force, 
and  the  third  application,  which  took  place  two  days 
later,  was  followed  by  rapid  increase  of  pulse  and 
plethoric  symptoms,  which  yielded  readily  to  active 
treatment.  After  twenty  applications,  the  patient 
had  essentially  recovered,  and,  in  the  opinion  of  M. 


Revue  Med.  (Nov.  1834,)  from  Bui.  Med.  de  Bourdeaux. 


DROPPED  HANDS. 


79 


Bermond,  would  in  two  weeks  longer  have  been 
relieved  from  every  trace  of  disease.  She,  however, 
left  Bourdeaux. 

104.  Dr.  W.  M.  Cornell  * relates  the  case  of  a 
journeyman  bootmaker,  who  was  atfected  with  par- 
tial paralysis  of  the  left  side,  accompanied  with  occa- 
sional twitchings.  After  four  or  five  months’  medical 
treatment,  Dr.  C.  prescribed  galvanism,  which  the 
patient  used,  every  other  day,  for  six  weeks,  at  the 
end  of  which  time  he  had  been  apparently  free  from 
the  affection  for  a fortnight.  The  current  was  sent 
in  various  directions,  through  the  extremities,  head, 
and  trunk,  the  time  of  application  being  about  fifteen 
minutes.  Dr.  Cornell  states  that  he  has  found  gal- 
vanism more  useful  in  cases  of  some  weeks’  stand- 
ing, which  have  been  treated  with  other  remedies, 
than  in  very  recent  ones. 

105.  Dropped  Hands.  — Dr.  Elliotson,  in  the 
clinical  department  of  St.  Thomas’s  Hospital,!  related 
the  case  of  a manufacturer  of  white  lead,  with 
dropped  hands,  who  used  to  assist  when  other  per- 
sons were  electrified  by  the  machine.  The  hand 
which  was  most  exposed  to  electricity,  and  also 
which  received  the  sparks,  recovered  much  the  most 
rapidly.  The  patient,  attributing  it  to  the  sparks, 
requested  that  the  application  might  be  made  in  that 
form  to  both  hands,  and,  under  these  circumstances, 
recovered  in  a short  time. 


* Br.  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.  1847 
f Lancet.  Feb.  1831. 


80 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


106.  Dr.  Elliotson  also  reports  the  case  of  a pain- 
ter,* aged  58,  with  paralysis  of  the  hands,  from  the 
effects  of  lead.  Shocks  were  passed  through  the 
hands  three  times  a day,  and  strychnia  also  ordered, 
in  small  doses.  The  improvement  was  very  rapid, 
although  none  of  the  usual  effects  of  strychnia  were 
perceptible,  and  its  administration  was  suspended 
after  ten  days.  Progress  continued,  and  in  about 
five  weeks,  the  patient  was  discharged  from  St. 
Thomas’s  Hospital,  cured. 

107.  M.  Heller,  of  Stuttgard.f  gives  the  case  of  a 
carpenter,  who,  in  the  autumn  of  1845,  fell  on  his 
back,  principally  on  the  cervical  vertebrae,  from  the 
roof  of  a cottage.  There  was  no  external  injury,  but 
paralysis  and  tumefaction  of  the  right  leg,  paralysis 
of  the  bladder,  partial  paralysis  of  the  rectum,  con- 
traction of  the  fingers  of  both  hands,  and  inability  to 
change  his  position.  This  remained  for  fifteen  days, 
notwithstanding  the  use  of  calomel,  arnica,  and  nitre. 
M.  Heller  then  had  recourse  to  electro-magnetism, 
applying  it  to  the  hands,  neck,  bladder,  sacral  region, 
and  right  foot.  The  application  to  the  bladder,  made 
from  three  to  six  minutes,  every  other  day,  by  means 
of  an  insulating  catheter,  with  a metallic  stilette, 
completely  restored  voluntary  power,  in  seven  appli- 
cations. The  pulse,  which  had  fallen  to  thirty  and 
thirty-six,  became  normal,  after  the  sixth  general 
application.  After  the  seventeenth  application,  he 


* Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  Nov.  1830. 

f Nouv.  Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  Aug.  1846. — Med.  Cor.  Blatt. 


PARALYSIS  OF  BOWELS. 


81 


could  be  considered  cured,  and  in  the  spring  returned 
to  his  lumber-yard. 

108.  Paralysis  of  the  Bladder. — An  instance  of 
the  relief  of  this  affection  has  just  been  given.  The 
following  case  is  related  by  M.  Hoering.*  A wo- 
man, aged  60,  suffering  from  prolapsus  uteri,  was  at- 
tacked with  paralysis  of  the  bladder.  Eight  appli- 
cations were  made,  resulting  in  a perfect  cure  ; one 
of  the  conductors  being  introduced  into  the  bladder, 
enclosed  in  a caoutchouc  catheter. 

109.  Dr.  Thomas  Radford,  in  a lecture  delivered 
in  1844, f reports  the  case  of  a lady,  under  the  care 
of  himself  and  Dr.  Goodwin,  who  recovered,  after 
protracted  labor,  with  inability  to  pass  her  urine. 
The  first  application  of  galvanism  to  the  bladder 
gave  permanent  relief. 

110.  Incontinence  of  Urine. — M.  Froriep  relates 
several  cases  of  cure  of  this  affection, J by  passing 
electricity  into  the  bladder  by  means  of  a metallic 
stylet  with  a button  point,  enclosed  in  a gum  cathe- 
ter. The  other  pole  was  applied  to  the  pubes.  The 
application  was  continued  fifteen  minutes,  and  was 
frequently  beneficial  the  first  day.  The  weakness 
occasioning  the  enuresis  of  children  may  be  treated 
in  the  same  way. 

111.  Paralysis  of  the  Boivels. — MM.  Emery, 
Cloquet,  and  Dubois,  in  their  report  to  the  French 
Academy,  in  May,  1826, § state  that  the  passage  of  a 

* Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  June,  1847. 

t Prov.  Med.  Jour.  Dec.  1844.  — Ranking’s  Abstract,  Part  I. 

J Ed.  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.  (1844,)  from  Eroriep’s  Notizen. 

£ Revue  Med.  July,  1826. 


82 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


battery  current  of  twenty-five  pairs,  from  the  mouth 
to  the  anus,  is  attended  with  a sensation  of  heat,  at 
both  extremes,  flashing  before  the  eyes,  and  motion 
of  the  whole  intestinal  canal,  which  continues,  after 
the  cessation  of  the  current,  and  terminates,  in  a few 
minutes,  with  evacuation.  This  took  place,  in  one 
experiment,  after  only  momentary  contact.  M.  Ma- 
gendie  had  also  made  similar  experiments. 

1 12.  Aldini,  by  a single  zinc  and  silver  plate,  con- 
nected by  a wire,  and  placed  respectively  in  the  anus 
and  mouth  of  an  ox,  recently  killed,  produced  con- 
vulsion of  the  abdominal  muscles,  and  a discharge 
of  faeces.*  Achard,  of  Berlin,  obtained  a similar  re- 
sult, in  repeating  the  experiment  on  himself. 

1 13.  The  excitement  of  the  peristaltic  action  of 
the  intestines  has  been  produced,  in  numerous  cases 
of  paralysis,  both  by  the  electro-magnetic  shocks  and 
the  galvanic  current.  Mr.  Clarke,  of  Dublin,!  states 
that  he  has  found  galvanism  more  efficient  than  elec- 
tro-magnetism, in  exciting  the  vermicular  motion  of 
the  intestines,  as  well  as  the  action  of  the  heart,  after 
these  functions  had  ceased,  from  asphyxia,  in  the 
case  of  animals  subjected  to  the  experiment.  This 
result  also  agrees  with  observation  in  the  case  of  the 
living  subject.  The  current  may  be  sent  from  the 
back  of  the  neck,  by  means  of  a surface  handle,  and 
with  less  inconvenience  to  the  patient,  than  by  con- 
tact with  the  tongue,  though  an  acid  or  pungent 
taste  will  still  be  perceived  in  the  mouth.  It  is  most 


* Golding  Bird.  — Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  May,  1847. 
t Dub.  IIosp.  Gaz.  — Braithewaite,  Part  XIII. 


APHONIA. 


83 


efficient  when  the  negative  conductor  is  introduced 
within  the  rectum,  though  a sponge  handle  may  he 
applied  superficially.  In  a majority  of  cases,  perhaps, 
the.  electro-magnetic  apparatus  will  answer  the  pur- 
pose. A movement  in  the  bowels  is  generally  felt, 
in  a few  moments,  and  an  evacuation  follows,  in  a 
period  dependent  on  the  position  of  the  faecal  matter 
in  the  intestines.  In  cases  of  obstinate  paralysis,  it 
might  be  necessary  to  continue  a feeble  galvanic  cur- 
rent, until  an  evacuation  was  effected.  A silver  plate, 
placed  in  the  mouth,  and  connected  by  a wire  with 
a conductor  of  zinc,  introduced  into  the  rectum, 
may  prove  a useful  expedient  in  such  cases. 

114.  Colica  Pictonum. — This  disease,  which  may 
be  considered  a painful  paralysis  of  the  bowels,  ex- 
tending also  to  the  limbs,  may  with  propriety  be 
treated  with  galvanism,  from  the  outset,  both  for  the 
paralysis  and  the  pain,  especially  if  of  a spasmodic 
character.  Galvanism  would  be  preferable  to  elec- 
tro-magnetism. 

115.  Aphonia. — A case  is  reported  in  the  Lan- 
cet,* of  a criminal,  who  was  attacked  with  aphonia, 
accompanied  with  a swelling  of  the  throat  and  fau- 
ces, after  a fit  of  epilepsy.  This  was  persistent,  after 
sixteen  months  of  medical  treatment,  directed  to  the 
mouth  and  throat.  A battery  of  from  fifty  to  seventy 
pairs  was  then  applied,  from  two  to  four  hundred 
shocks  being  given,  or  contacts  made,  on  each  day. 
No  effect  was  produced  till  the  third  application, 


Lancet.  May,  1843.  — Braithewaite,  Part  VIII. 


84 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


when  seventy  pairs  were  used,  which  produced  faint- 
ing and  some  agitation.  This,  with  some  overaction 
of  the  system,  was  relieved,  subsequently,  by  bleed- 
ing, and  in  five  days  the  application  was  renewed. 
After  the  twelfth  application,  the  patient  had  com- 
pletely recovered. 

116.  M.  Magendie  presented  to  the  French  Acad- 
emy, at  its  sitting  in  December,  1837, # a cavalry 
officer,  who  had  lost  his  voice  and  hearing,  in  con- 
sequence of  a fall  from  his  horse.  The  hearing  had 
been  restored  by  means  of  electro-puncture.  The 
aphonia,  which  had  at  first  been  complete,  had  given 
way,  so  that  vocal  sounds  could  be  produced,  but 
articulation  was  still  deficient.  He  was  improving 
daily.  The  treatment  had  been  continued  for  a year. 

117.  Dr.  Donovan,  of  Dublin,  quotes  from  Dr. 
Grapengiesser,f  a case  of  restoration  of  voice,  by 
means  of  a plate  of  zinc,  the  size  of  a shilling,  and  a 
small  plate  of  silver,  connected  by  a wire,  and  applied 
respectively  to  surfaces  blistered  for  the  occasion,  one 
on  each  side  of  the  larynx.  Convulsive  movements 
of  the  larynx  were  occasioned,  and  in  half  an  hour 
the  apparatus  was  removed.  Some  benefit  ensued. 
Five  days  afterwards,  it  was  applied  again,  and  al- 
lowed to  remain  all  night,  effecting  a permanent  cure. 

118.  Paralytic  Contraction.  — A case  has  already 
been  quoted  (§74)  of  the  partial  cure  of  paralytic 
contraction  of  the  arm  and  fingers.  Where  this  indi- 


* Revue  Med.  Jan.  1838. 

f Dub.  Quart.  Jour.  Med.  Sc.  Feb.  1847.  — Am.  Jour.  Med.  Sc. 
1847 


ANAESTHESIA. 


85 


cates  nervous  irritation,  the  battery  alone  should  be 
employed,  and  frequently  the  higher  powers  will  be 
required.  A case  is  reported  by  M.  Breschet,*  at 
the  Hotel  Dieu,  of  spasmodic  and  permanent  con- 
traction of  the  flexors  of  the  fingers  from  a lancet 
incision.  This  was  treated  by  galvano-puncture' 
with  twenty-five  or  thirty  pairs,  one  needle  being 
inserted  near  the  origin  of  the  flexors,  the  other  in 
the  annular  ligament  of  the  wrist.  The  fingers 
gradually  unclosed,  and,  after  twelve  applications,  a 
permanent  cure  was  effected. 

119.  Anaesthesia.  — A case  of  anaesthesia,  or  insensi- 
bility, approaching  paralysis,  is  given  by  Dr.  Christo- 
phers, of  London.f  The  subject  was  a woman,  who, 
from  the  use  of  the  cold  hip-bath,  twenty  minutes 
at  a time,  for  twelve  days  in  succession,  had  lost 
all  sensibility  of  the  surface  from  the  line  round  the 
body  reached  by  the  water  to  the  toes.  The  sphinc- 
ters of  the  rectum  and  bladder  were  also  slightly  im- 
paired in  their  functions.  Stimulating  frictions  were 
applied,  during  a fortnight,  to  the  surface  and  spine, 
and  leeches,  to  remove  a local  tenderness  over  the 
dorsal  vertebrae,  but  without  giving  relief.  The 
electro-magnetic  shocks  were  then  administered,  at 
twenty-two  sittings,  of  an  hour  and  a half  to  two 
hours  each,  at  the  end  of  which  time  the  cure  was 
complete.  Improvement  commenced  on  the  second 
application.  The  rectum  and  bladder  were  first 


* Braithewaite,  Part  IV.  from  Jour,  des  Con.  Med. 
f Lancet.  Aug.  1846. 

8 


80 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


restored,  then  the  sensibility  of  the  thighs  and  legs, 
and,  lastly,  of  the  feet  and  abdomen.  The  current 
was  passed  successively  down  the  course  of  the 
spine,  — from  the  sacrum  down  each  limb,  — and 
from  the  spine  to  the  abdomen. 

120.  General  Debility.  Atonic  States.  — A 
condition  of  nervous  prostration  frequently  exists, 
which  is  capable  of  being  benefited  by  electricity. 
In  these  cases,  electro-magnetism,  or  galvanism,  may 
be  passed  through  the  arms,  and  across  the  body,  by 
means  of  the  cylinders  held  in  each  hand  for  several 
minutes  at  a time  ; or  they  may  be  passed  from  one 
hand  to  the  foot ; or,  lastly,  they  may  be  passed  down 
the  spine.  The  application  of  electricity  to  the  brain 
also  deserves  attention  in  this  connection.  The 
nervous  exhaustion  of  the  young  is  one  of  the  affec- 
tions to  which  this  treatment  is  applicable.  Weak- 
ness, or  atonic  condition  of  the  throat,  may  be 
treated  in  the  same  way  as  aphonia. 

121.  Coldness  of  Extremities.  — When  this  ex- 
ists as  a primary  affection,  or  symptomatic  of  others, 
the  capillary  circulation  may  be  excited,  and  the  ner- 
vous power  of  the  part  temporarily  increased,  by  the 
application  of  galvanism  or  electro-magnetism.  In- 
creased warmth  is  one  of  the  first  effects  of  electrical 
action.  The  sponge  handles,  moistened  with  spirit, 
may  be  moved  over  the  skin  near  each  other,  or  be 
separated  widely  apart.  The  feet  or  hands  may  also 
be  placed  in  separate  vessels  of  warm  water,  and  one 
conductor  be  put  in  each.  As  a means  of  reaction^ 
this  is  sometimes  of  value.  The  battery  will  be 
found  most  powerful  in  producing  this  effect. 


AMAUROSIS. 


87 


122.  Paralysis  of  Special  Sensation.  Amau- 
rosis.— This  is  one  of  the  most  formidable  affections 
to  which  electricity  has  been  applied.  Dr.  Bird  ob- 
tained no  conclusive  or  satisfactory  results  at  Guy’s 
Hospital  * * * § with  the  mode  of  treatment,  principally 
by  the  machine,  there  employed : in  a majority  of 
cases  no  good  was  done  ; in  a few  there  was  ap- 
parently relief,  but  no  cure.  Dr.  Usiglio,  of  Corfu, 
states  that  he  has  found  no  advantage  from  the  use 
of  electricity  in  this  disease. f He  relates  the  case  of 
a sailor,  aged  56,  with  amaurosis  following  chronic 
inflammation,  in  which  a battery  of  twenty  to  sixty 
pairs  was  employed  unsuccessfully.  The  positive 
pole  was  placed  over  the  closed  eyelid,  and  the  neg- 
ative on  the  tongue.  More  patient  and  more  efficient 
modes  of  treatment,  however,  have  given  important 
results  in  the  hands  of  other  practitioners.  Dr.  Fi- 
nella  reported  many  cases  of  amaurosis,  which  he  had 
treated  successfully  by  electricity,  to  the  sixth  and 
seventh  Scientific  Congresses  of  Italy 4 It  remains 
only  to  say,  with  Magendie,  in  introduction  to  the 
following  cases,  that  the  name  amaurosis  probably 
includes  several  different  diseases ; that  complete 
amaurosis  is  with  difficulty  cured ; and  that  it  requires 
for  its  treatment  the  powerful  and  prolonged  exhibi- 
tion of  electricity. 

123.  M.  Magendie  reported  to  the  French  Acad- 
emy, at  its  sitting  of  June  19,  1826,$  several  cases  of 

* Guy’s  Hospital  Reports.  April,  1841. 

t Revue  Med.  March,  1844. 

X Nouv.  Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  Apri),  1847. 

§ Revue  Med.  July,  1826. 


88 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


incomplete  amaurosis  benefited  or  cured  by  electro- 
puncture. These  cases,  easily  influenced,  he  con- 
sidered to  be  due  to  alteration  of  the  ophthalmic 
branch  of  the  fifth  pair,  and  not  of  the  optic  nerve. 
He  accordingly  attacked  the  frontal  and  suborbital 
branches  by  means  of  electro-puncture  needles.  In 
the  case  of  a young  man  of  18,  he  even  assailed  the 
frontal  nerve  within  the  orbit,  and  the  lachrymal 
nerve,  occasioning  an  abundant  secretion  of  tears. 
Twelve  feeble  pairs  were  employed.  Considerable 
improvement  had  taken  place  in  fifteen  applications. 
In  other  cases,  a highly  satisfactory  result  had  been 
obtained,  and  in  a lady  aged  sixty,  a complete  cure 
after  three  months’  treatment. 

124.  In  his  lectures  before  the  College  of  Prance,* 
M.  Magendie  also  recommends  acting  upon  the 
branches  of  the  fifth  pair  in  treating  amaurosis,  as 
the  most  expeditious  and  efficient  method,  especially 
in  the  incipient  disease.  He  prefers  electro-puncture, 
transfixing  the  nerve  with  the  needles  — a process 
which  he  declares  to  be  entirely  safe.  In  complete 
amaurosis,  M.  Magendie,  in  1836,  had  never  obtained 
a cure ; but  where  some  perception  of  light  remained, 
he  had  been  entirely  successful. 

125.  Becquerel  related  to  the  French  Academy,  in 
December,  1837, f the  case  of  a man  affected  with 
almost  complete  amaurosis,  who  had  been  treated  by 
electro-puncture.  The  current  was  made  to  pass 
along  the  frontal  and  suborbital  nerves,  “ which 


* Lancet.  May,  1837. 
f Revue  Med.  Jan.  1838. 


AMAUROSIS. 


89 


react  with  the  nerve  of  special  sensation.”  In  three 
months,  a notable  improvement  in  the  sensibility  of 
the  eyes  had  taken  place,  and  the  treatment  was 
confided  to  the  wife  of  the  patient,  in  whose  hands 
he  had  progressed  so  far,  that,  at  that  time,  he  was 
able  to  walk  in  the  streets  without  a guide. 

126.  Dr.  H.  Schlesinger  gives  a full  report  * of 
the  case  of  a young  man,  who,  from  a blow  upon 
the  back  of  the  head,  experienced  severe  pain,  termi- 
nating in  unconsciousness,  from  which  he  recovered 
with  entire  loss  of  sight ; the  iris  being  immovable, 
and  the  pupil  undilatable.  Stimulants  were  applied 
for  several  days  without  success.  He  then  applied 
electro-magnetism,  by  means  of  sponge  or  metallic 
conductors  to  the  superior  and  inferior  orbital  fo- 
ramina, to  the  maxillary  fossa,  and  the  gums  of  the 
canine  and  molar  teeth,  continuing  the  external 
application  of  an  infusion  of  calamus . The  teeth 
and  facial  muscles  were  affected,  but  not  the  eyes. 
The  application  was  then  made  immediately  to  the 
membrane  of  the  eye,  and  continued  until  tears  were 
copiously  excited.  The  sensation  of  light  was  per- 
ceived during  the  first  application.  Sensations  of 
cold  and  heat,  and  also  of  prickling,  were  present 
in  subsequent  sittings,  which  usually  lasted  ten  or 
twelve  minutes.  Eight  days  from  the  commence- 
ment, some  objects  could  be  distinguished,  and  the 
application  was  suspended  for  a week,  for  the  trial  of 
strychnine  ointment ; but  no  improvement  took  place. 


Nouv.  Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  Oct.  1847. 
8* 


90 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


On  renewing  the  application,  colors  were  soon  dis- 
tinguished, and  the  iris  was  observed  to  contract. 
The  retina  only  seemed  to  be  restored  in  particular 
positions  with  reference  to  the  current,  and  the  con- 
ductors were  so  placed  as  to  act  as  far  as  possible  on 
all  parts.  Some  spasmodic  affections  and  irritation 
of  the  conjunctiva  occurred  from  time  to  time,  and 
modified  the  application,  but  the  patient  gained 
steadily ; and,  when  removed  by  his  parents,  after 
forty-two  applications,  during  a period  of  two  months, 
could  move  about  freely,  recognize  the  features  of 
friends,  and  distinguish  the  hands  of  a watch.  Dif- 
ferent effects  were  produced  on  the  eye,  in  this  case, 
by  the  different  strength  of  the  current,  and  during 
different  degrees  of  sensibility  in  the  organ.  The 
sensation  produced  by  a moderate  current  was  that 
of  cold ; of  a stronger  one,  heat ; of  a still  stronger, 
pain,  and  flashes  like  lightning.  Where  the  paralysis 
is  extensive,  the  light  appears  white  and  sparkling ; 
when  less,  of  a ruddy,  flaming  aspect ; and  when 
slight,  of  a blue  color  — indications  which  may  have 
their  value  in  determining  the  progress  of  cure. 

127.  In  the  Gazette  Medicate  de  Paris*  twelve 
cases  of  amaurosis,  treated  by  electro-puncture,  are 
given  by  Dr.  Person,  of  Bourdeaux,  which  are  of 
especial  value,  as  showing  the  conditions  of  failure, 
as  well  as  of  success.  The  outlines  of  these  are 
given  below. 

I.  A dentist,  aged  34,  of  a bilious  temperament, 


* Nouv.  Encyclog.  dcs  Sc.  Med.  July,  1843. 


AMAUROSIS. 


91 


had  suffered,  for  several  years,  with  loss  of  vision,  to 
the  extent  of  confusion  of  objects,  and  want  of  dis- 
tinction between  colors,  except  black  and  white.  He 
was  especially  annoyed  by  the  constant  presence  of 
musccs  volitantes.  The  pupils  were  permanently  di- 
lated. For  the  first  fifteen  days,  under  electro-punc- 
ture, there  was  no  improvement ; but  it  soon  after- 
wards manifested  itself,  and  three  weeks  later  the 
sight  was  restored,  so  as  to  be  used  even  by  artificial 
light.  This  cure  had  continued  two  years. 

II.  A man,  aged  40,  almost  entirely  amaurotic  for 
ten  years.  Pupils  immovable,  and  exceedingly  di- 
lated. Submitted  to  acu-puncture,  one  of  the  needles 
being  inserted  in  the  orbit,  and  the  other  in  the  back 
of  the  neck.  No  improvement  was  manifested  till 
the  eighteenth  sitting,  when  restoration  commenced. 
After  five  months,  and  one  hundred  and  fifty  appli- 
cations, of  half  an  hour  each,  the  sight  was  entirely 
recovered. 

III.  An  officer,  of  36  years,  with  amaurosis  of  six 
months’  standing,  underwent  thirty  applications  with- 
out benefit.  A needle  was  then  passed  into  the  vit- 
reous humor  of  the  eye,  and  a slight  current  sent 
through  to  the  neck.  Perception  of  light  was  immedi- 
ately restored,  but  only  during  the  operation.  A simi- 
lar result  ensued  on  the  following  day ; but  pain  in  the 
globe  of  the  eye  and  in  the  head  prevented  a recur- 
rence to  the  operation,  and  the  amaurosis  remained. 

IV.  A mantua-maker,  aged  27,  with  complete  am- 
aurosis for  five  years.  Pupils  immovable  and  dilated, 
and  a grayish  spot  at  the  bottom  of  the  eye.  One 


92 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


needle  was  passed,  as  in  the  last  case,  into  the  vitie- 
ous  humor.  Vision  was  at  once  restored  for  the  time 
of  the  operation.  The  day  following,  it  was  repeat- 
ed, with  the  same  result,  vision  being  restored  per- 
manently, though  not  perfectly.  This  cure  had 
remained  for  eighteen  months. 

V.  A man,  aged  34.  The  right  eye  completely 
amaurotic,  the  left  partially  so.  In  two  months’ 
treatment  with  electro-puncture,  confined  to  the  or- 
bit, the  left  eye  was  entirely  restored,  and  the  right 
eye  partially. 

VI.  A wgman,  aged  24,  with  complete  amaurosis 
for  four  years.  No  benefit  from  six  applications. 

VII.  A woman,  aged  30.  Amaurosis  for  six  years. 
No  relief  from  twelve  applications. 

VIII.  Amaurosis  of  infancy  (congenital  ?).  No  re- 
lief from  seven  applications. 

IX.  A man,  with  amaurosis  of  two  years’  standing. 
No  relief  from  fifteen  applications. 

X.  Amaurosis  for  two  years.  No  relief  from  fif- 
teen applications. 

XL  A man,  recently  amaurotic.  No  relief  from 
twelve  applications. 

XII.  A woman,  amaurotic  for  several  years.  No 
relief  from  fifteen  applications. 

128.  Dr.  Person  remarks,  that  the  seven  latter 
cases  were  of  individuals  too  indifferent  as  to  the 
treatment  to  follow  it  to  any  successful  result,  and 
that  to  cure  amaurosis  it  requires  a greater  number 
of  applications  than  have  usually  been  given  to  it. 
The  suggestion  may  be  made,  that  the  use  of  acu- 


AUDITORY  PARALYSIS.  93 

puncture  to  the  back  of  the  neck  seems  to  have  been 
unnecessary  in  these  cases,  unless  some  local  action 
was  intended  on  the  upper  part  of  the  spinal  cord. 
As  a mere  terminus  of  the  voltaic  current,  a sponge 
handle,  applied  to  the  neck,  would  be  preferable. 

129.  The  eye-glass  for  electrical  application  (<§>  39) 
presents  a means  of  very  powerful  action  upon  the 
eye,  which  at  the  same  time  is  diffused  and  tends  to 
allay  inflammation.  It  is  here  recommended,  as  a 
resort,  at  any  rate,  in  the  less  severe  cases  of  amauro- 
sis. A very  mild  form  of  application  is,  to  place 
a handle  containing  a soft  sponge,  moistened  with 
water  or  a saline  solution,  in  contact  with  the  closed 
eyelid. 

130.  Night-Blindness.  — A case  of  this  affection, 
in  connection  with  deafness,  will  be  found  under  the 
follo  wing  head. 

131.  Paralysis  of  the  Auditory  Nerve.  — A case 
has  already  been  presented  (§  116)  of  the  cure  of  this 
affection  by  galvano-puncture.  In  Guy’s  Hospital, 
the  treatment  by  machine  electricity  proved  gen- 
erally unsatisfactory.  The  most  common  mode  of 
treatment  has  been,  to  introduce  into  the  auditory 
canal  a slender  conductor,  insulated  by  caoutchouc 
or  other  substance,  except  at  the  extremity,  which 
may  be  either  a sponge,  or  metallic  ball  covered  with 
moistened  leather.  One  conductor  may  be  placed  in 
each  ear,  and  the  current  made  to  pass  between ; or 
the  second  conductor  may  be  placed  upon  the  tongue, 
or  in  the  Eustachian  tube.  The  conductors  may  also 
be  applied  externally,  immediately  behind  the  ear. 


94 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


Both  electro-magnetism  and  galvanism  have  been  suc- 
cessfully employed.  The  application  should  be  made 
with  gentleness  and  caution,  as  distressing  and  con- 
fusing sensations  may  be  readily  transmitted  by  the 
auditory  nerve  to  the  brain. 

132.  In  the  Annali  Universi  di  Medicina  of  De- 
cember, 1846,*  notes  are  given  of  cases  of  deafness 
treated  by  Dr.  Finella,  and  reported  by  him  to  the 
Scientific  Congress  at  Genoa.  The  first  was  of  a 
sexagenarian,  who  had  been  confined  eleven  months 
in  the  fortress  of  Saluces.  In  his  youth  he  had  suf- 
fered from  otorrhcea.  Two  years  before,  he  had  be- 
come night-blind,  and  six  months  later,  nearly  deaf. 
The  positive  pole  of  the  battery  was  applied,  by  a 
proper  conductor,  to  the  tympanum,  and  the  negative 
to  the  tongue.  After  the  first  application,  a slight 
discharge  took  place  from  the  ear.  This  continued 
after  the  second,  on  the  following  day;  but  a slight 
improvement  in  hearing  was  perceived.  On  the 
third,  the  improvement  continued,  and  the  sight 
gained  also.  On  the  fourth,  the  hearing  was  much 
improved,  and  in  the  right  ear,  which  had  not  been 
galvanized,  as  well  as  the  left.  After  twelve  appli- 
cations, the- hearing  was  perfectly  reestablished,  and 
the  cure  remained  permanent.  In  the  second  case, 
a man,  aged  30,  had  become  deaf  from  inflammation 
of  the  ear,  following  rheumatism  two  years  previous. 
The  same  application  of  galvanism  was  used,  and 
hearing  was  restored  in  both  ears,  after  the  eleventh 


Nouv.  Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  April,  1847. 


AUDITORY  PARALYSIS. 


95 


operation,  although  the  right  ear  was  never  galvan- 
ized. Two  other  precisely  analogous  cases  are  men- 
tioned, of  gradual  deafness,  in  a man  aged  65,  and  a 
woman  aged  63,  cured  in  a similar  manner.  Dr.  Fi- 
nella  remarks,  that  the  introduction  of  the  conductor 
into  the  ear  as  far  as  the  tympanun,  is  at  first  very 
painful,  and  should  be  performed  by  the  patient  him- 
self. A sense  of  titillation  remains  in  the  ear  for  sev- 
eral days  after  the  application.  Some  swelling  of 
the  membrane  of  the  meatus  takes  place,  which  ren- 
ders it  advisable  to  make  the  application  only  every 
other  day. 

133.  It  is  stated,  in  the  Bulletin  general  de  The- 
rapeutique*  that  M.  Jobert  de  Lamballe  cured  several 
cases  of  deafness,  following  inflammation  from  cold, 
and  of  recent  paralysis  of  the  acoustic  nerve,  by  the 
following  process : A needle  was  introduced,  in  a 
sheath,  into  the  Eustachian  tube,  and  made  to  transfix 
the  walls.  Another  needle  was  introduced  into  the 
external  ear,  and  made  to  transfix  the  tympanum. 
A galvanic  current  was  then  passed,  for  a moment, 
through  these,  and  the  application  repeated  in  eight 
days. 

134.  In  a notice  of  a work  of  Dr.  Niney,  on  this 
subject,  in  the  Revue  des  Specialties, f it  is  stated  that 
the  author  regards  the  mode  of  application  as  of  prin- 
cipal importance,  considering  the  influence  upon  the 
organ  of  sensation  to  be  due  to  reflected  action  from 
the  nervous  centre  of  that  organ.  He  modifies  the 


Revue  Med.  Sept.  1842. 


t Revue  Med.  Nov.  1842. 


96 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


application  of  M.  Jobert  by  introducing  two  needles, 
through  a sound  containing  two  channels,  into  the 
Eustachian  tube,  transfixing  its  walls  with  the  one, 
and  carrying  the  other  into  the  inner  ear.  In  five 
cases  treated  in  this  way,  two  were  moderately  ben- 
efited, two  were  cured,  and  one  was  progressing 
towards  a cure. 

135.  A case  is  reported  by  M.  Hoering, * in  which 
a man,  aged  60,  with  deafness  of  a year’s  standing, 
was  cured  by  twenty  applications,  by  means  of  an 
insulated  conductor  passed  into  the  external  ear. 

136.  Tinnitus  Aurium. — A patient  of  Dr.  Hoe- 
ring had  been  affected  with  typhus  fever,  and  had 
been  treated  for  three  months,  without  success,  for 
ringing  in  the  ears.  A conductor  was  passed  into 
the  ear,  and  with  the  first  application  the  noise  had 
diminished.  The  cure  was  complete  in  about  twen- 
ty-two sittings. 

137.  Deafness  from  other  Causes.  — Dr.  W. 
Wright,  of  London,  states  that  he  has  found  benefit 
from  the  use  of  electricity  in  producing  gradual  ab- 
sorption of  pus  and  coagulable  lymph  in  the  cavity 
of  the  tympanum  ; also  in  exciting  the  ceruminous 
glands  to  a secretion  of  wax ; also  in  deafness  from 
the  abuse  of  mercury,  and  from  exposure  to  cold. 
For  this  purpose,  it  requires  a high  degree  of  power, 
and  the  use  of  th^  battery. 

138.  Suspended  Animation. — Matteucci  states, 
as  a characteristic  of  electricity,  that  it  arouses  the 


Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  June,  1847. 


SUSPENDED  ANIMATION. 


97 


nervous  system  after  all  other  stimulants  have  ceased 
to  act  ($  10).  It  stands  alone,  therefore,  in  its 
power  of  restoring  suspended  animation.  Dr.  Wilson 
Philip*  points  out  the  necessity  of  supplying  nervous 
power,  after  removing  any  cause  of  asphyxia,  to  ena- 
ble the  lungs  and  circulation  to  resume  their  func- 
tions, and  also  to  arouse  the  general  vitality  of  the 
system.  This  should  be  done,  in  the  first  instance, 
by  a current  directed  to  the  lungs  and  diaphragm ; 
and  in  the  second,  to  the  brain,  and  spinal  marrow. 
Wilson  Philip  urges  that  not  more  than  fifteen  or 
twenty  pairs  of  the  battery  should  be  employed. 

139.  Drowning.  — Leroy  d’Etoiles  made  experi- 
ments,! witnessed  by  Magendie,  for  the  resuscitation 
of  animals,  nearly  drowned,  by  introducing  long 
needles  between  the  eighth  and  ninth  ribs,  into  the 
fibres  of  the  diaphragm,  and  making  them  the  poles 
of  an  electric  current.  Respiration  was  reestab- 
lished, and  the  animals  so  treated  recovered,  while 
those  left  to  themselves  never  revived. 

140.  Dr.  Ferguson,  surgeon  to  the  Westmeath 
Dispensary,!  relates  the  case  of  a man  who  fell 
into  the  water  in  a state  of  intoxication,  and  who 
was  immersed  six  or  seven  minutes.  He  was  then 
carried  half  a mile,  the  stomach-pump  used,  and 
ordinary  means  of  restoration  exhausted.  Dr.  F. 
then  cut  down  to  the  diaphragm,  below  the  seventh 
rib,  and  applied  a battery  of  fifty  pairs.  Spasmodic 

* Vital  Functions. 

t Ed.  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.  Jan.  1842.  — Braithewaite,  Part  V. 

t Bub.  Med.  Press.  July  and  Sept.  1840.  — Braithewaite,  Part  II. 

9 


98 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


action  of  the  diaphragm  commenced  at  once,  and, 
shortly  after,  regular  respiration  and  the  circulation 
were  renewed.  The  Gazette  des  Hopitaux  Civils 
et  Militaires , of  Paris,  in  commenting  on  this  case, 
recommends  the  use  of  acu-puncture  needles,  instead 
of  the  incision,  and  applying  the  poles  a greater 
distance  apart. 

141.  Narcotism.  — In  narcotism,  the  excitability 
of  the  nerves  is  impaired,  and  the  most  powerful 
and  stimulating  application  is  often  required,  as  the 
electro-magnetic  shocks,  the  interrupted  current  of 
the  battery,  or  the  Leyden  jar.  A case  is  given  by 
Dr.  C.  H.  B.  Williams,  physician  to  University  Col- 
lege Hospital,*  of  a young  woman  who  had  swal- 
lowed an  ounce  and  a half  of  laudanum.  An  emetic 
of  sulphate  of  zinc  had  been  administered  with  effect, 
and  the  stomach-pump  had  been  used.  A state  of 
coma,  however,  existing,  electro-magnetic  shocks 
were  passed  across  the  shoulders,  with  the  effect  of 
instantly  restoring  the  patient  to  consciousness,  the 
object  being,  at  the  same  time,  to  influence  respira- 
tion. The  usual  means  of  reaction  being  also  em- 
ployed, the  patient  subsequently  recovered. 

142.  The  following  case  is  reported  by  Dr.  James 
Russell,  house  physician  to  King’s  College  Hospital. f 
An  infant  of  two  months  had  taken  twelve  drops  of 
laudanum.  After  five  and  a half  hours,  during 
which  time  life  had  been  once  considered  entirely 
extinct,  and  all  remedies  exhausted,  electro-magnetic 

* Lond.  Lancet.  July,  1841. — Braithe waite,  Part  IV. 

tLond.  Med.  Gaz.  March,  1843.  — Am.  Jour,  of  Lond.  Med.  Sc. — 

Apr.  1843. 


N ARC  OTI SM. 


99 


shocks  were  passed  from  the  hack  of  the  neck  to  the 
sternum,  reestablishing  respiration,  and  gradually 
extending  its  influence  to  other  functions.  The  sur- 
face becoming  warm,  after  three  hours,  the  appli- 
cation was  considered  no  longer  necessary  ; but  half 
an  hour  later,  dilatation  of  the  pupils  and  exhaustion, 
without  coma,  ensued,  from  which  it  was  found 
impossible  to  rouse  the  patient,  who  lingered  for 
several  hours,  and  then  died. 

143.  Dr.  Th.  S.  Page,  of  Valparaiso,  aided  by  Dr. 
Houstoun,  of  the  English  navy,  and  Dr.  Barrabino, 
of  the  United  States  navy,*  treated  the  case  of  a 
young  man,  aged  22,  who  had  taken  half  an  ounce 
of  pulverized  cubebs,  mixed  with  opium.  A state 
of  narcotism  was  induced,  which,  after  about  fifteen 
hours,  threatened  to  terminate  fatally ; respiration 
being  short  and  hurried,  jaw  fallen,  pulse  hardly  per- 
ceptible. Every  mode  of  producing  reaction  had  been 
exhausted.  Vomiting,  cupping,  applications  of  am- 
monia, cantharides,  and  turpentine,  to  the  spine  and 
feet;  injections  of  turpentine  and  ammonia;  sina- 
pisms t©  chest,  stomach,  and  thighs ; castigation  ; 
forced  exercise,  and  internal  stimulants,  had  been 
resorted  to.  Electro-magnetism  was  then  tried  as  an 
experiment.  The  first  application,  from  the  left  to 
the  right  side,  through  the  heart,  produced  convul- 
sive motions ; and,  at  the  fourth  contact,  the  patient 
cried,  “ No  more.”  Reaction  was  established,  the 
pulse  revived,  and  the  surface  became  warm.  He 


* Lond.  Lancet.  Feb.  4,  1843. 


100 


NERVOU  S SYSTEM. 


recovered  without  further  application.  He  had  lost 
consciousness,  until  the  shock  had  aroused  him  with 
the  sensation,  as  he  expressed  it,  of  a “ gun  fired  off 
within  him.” 

144.  Mr.  Corfe,  of  Middlesex  Hospital,*  reports 
the  case  of  a man  who  had  taken  an  ounce  and  a 
half  of  laudanum,  six  hours  previously,  and  was  in 
an  almost  lifeless  condition.  16  After  the  stomach 
had  been  relieved  of  its  contents,  green  tea,  with 
ammonia,  was  injected  therein ; flagellation,  with 
thin  splints,  and  wet  towels,  the  cold  douche,  tur- 
pentine stupes,  and  sinapisms,  to  the  calves  and 
abdomen,  were  applied,  in  succession,  without  the 
least  improvement  in  his  condition.  Electro-mag- 
netism, conjointly  with  shocks  from  the  jar,  were 
then  employed.  The  pulse  rallied,  and  respiration 
improved  at  once.  The  result  was,  that  the  man 
soon  began  to  abuse  the  operators  for  “ trying  speci- 
mens ” upon  him,  and  recovered. 

145.  Dr.  M.  Barry  relates  the  case  of  an  infant, 
of  nine  months,!  who  swallowed  thirty  drops  of 
laudanum,  and  was  not  seen  till  seven  hours  after- 
ward, when  in  a state  of  profound  coma.  It  was 
aroused  by  electro-magnetism,  but  fell  off  when  the 
current  ceased  for  a moment.  The  application  was 
continued  for  four  hours  and  three  quarters,  before  it 
was  thought  proper  to  discontinue  it.  The  child 
then  recovered. 

146.  A case  of  poisoning,  by  Godfrey’s  Cordial,  is 


* Lond.  Lancet.  Jan.  1844.  — Braithe  waite,  Part  IX. 
f Med.  Gaz.  May,  1847.  — Braithewaite,  Part  XVI. 


NARCOTISM. 


101 


reported  by  Mr.  Tubbs,  in  the  Medical  Gazette.* 
He  found  the  child,  who  was  three  weeks’  old,  in  a 
state  of  complete  narcotism,  from  swallowing  half 
a teaspoonful  of  Godfrey’s  Cordial,  five  hours  pre- 
viously. After  a resort  to  the  usual  means,  the 
child  was  sinking,  pupils  contracted,  the  tempera- 
ture of  the  body  falling.  Electro-magnetism  was 
then  employed.  Feeble  shocks,  sent  through  the 
spine  and  cardiac  region,  brought  on  muscular  con- 
traction, voluntary  motions,  and  a cry.  The  appli- 
cation was  continued  for  ten  minutes,  the  heart’s 
action  being  accelerated,  and  the  eyes  kept  open. 
Stimulants  were  then  administered  internally  and 
externally,  and  the  little  patient  recovered. 

147.  A female,  aged  29,  was  brought  into  the  Mid- 
dlesex Hospitalf  an  hour  after  having  swallowed  an 
ounce  of  laudanum.  Unconsciousness  and  contracted 
pupil  were  present,  and  the  glottis  embarrassed  with 
ropy  mucus.  The  battery  at  first  produced  no  ex- 
citement, but  soon  quivering  of  muscles  of  the  neck, 
and  in  half  an  hour  vomiting  and  general  reaction 
ensued.  In  an  hour  longer,  the  patient  was  quite 
lively ; but  the  application  was  necessarily  renewed, 
occasionally,  for  five  hours,  to  prevent  relapse. 

148.  An  excessive  dose  of  laudanum,  administered 
in  the  summer  of  1848,  to  a workman  in  the  navy- 
yard  at  Charlestown,  occasioned  death.  The  most 
powerful  electro-magnetic  shocks,  applied  four  or 
five  hours  later,  failed  to  produce  the  slightest  mus- 

* Med.  Gaz.  Sept.  1847.  — Braithe  waite,  Part  XVI. 

t Lancet.  June,  1847.  — Br.  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.  1847. 

9 * 


102 


NE  RVOUS  SYSTEM. 


cular  contraction.  This  loss  of  excitability  in  nar- 
cotism, shared  both  by  the  nervous  system  and 
tissues,  is  one  of  the  most  striking  symptoms,  and 
requires  for  its  treatment  the  most  energetic  forms 
of  administration. 

149.  Etherization.  — M.  Ducros  stated,  before  the 
French  Academy,*  that  chickens  and  pigeons,  sub- 
jected to  etherization,  and  placed  upon  the  insulating 
stool  of  the  machine,  and  positively  electrified,  re- 
covered from  insensibility  in  about  thirty  seconds ; 
whereas  they  ordinarily  remained  insensible  for  seven 
or  eight  minutes.  If  subjected  to  shocks,  either  from 
the  machine  or  the  magneto-electric  apparatus,  the 
recovery  was  instantaneous.  Electrification  with 
negative  electricity  upon  the  insulating  stool  rather 
retarded  than  accelerated  restoration. 

150.  Congestive  States. — Dr.  Th.  S.  Page,  of 
Valparaiso,!  after  narrating  the  case  which  will  be 
found  under  the  head  of  Narcotism , uses  the  follow- 
ing language  : “ I would  beg  leave  to  add  my  im- 
pression that  electro-magnetism  will  not  only  be 
found  a most  useful  agent,  in  cases  like  the  above, 
but  in  some  forms  of  disease,  particularly  those  of  a 
highly  congestive  character,  where  oppression  of  the 
organs  and  the  nervous  system  prevents  reaction  and 

speedily  destroys  life In  practice,  I think 

we  frequently  see  cases  where  death  seems  to  be 
caused  by  an  obstruction  of  the  functions  or  or- 
ganic movements  which  support  life,  more  than  by 

* Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  May,  1847.  — Comptes  Rendus,  Feb.  1847. 

f Lancet.  Feb.  1843.  — Am.  Jour.  Med.  Sc.  April,  1843. 


TYPHUS. 


103 


an  exhaustion  of  the  organic  functions,  or  of  life 
itself.  ” 

151.  These  remarks  may  be  extended  to  collapse , 
or  sinking  conditions  of  the  system,  either  from  dis- 
ease or  violent  injury.  Syncope , or  fainting,  and  ex- 
haustion, would  be  included  in  the  same  treatment. 
Dr.  Dewees,  in  the  New  York  Journal  of  Medicine,* 
remarks,  “ In  cases  of  exceeding  prostration,  where 
the  pulse  was  extinct,  I have  witnessed  a return  of 
impulse  take  place  in  a few  minutes,  and  the  sense 
of  weakness  fully  as  well  overcome  as  by  the  admin- 
istration of  brandy  or  wine,” 

152.  Typhus.  — Dr.  Wilson  Philip,  states  that  Mr, 
Knight  suggested  to  him  “ the  use  of  galvanism  in 
the  worst  cases  of  typhus,  in  which  there  is  a univer- 
sal failure  of  the  secreting  power,  and  the  debility  of 
the  nervous  system  forms  so  prominent  a feature.  It 
may  certainly  be  used  with  safety,  and  probably  with 
advantage,  in  this  disease.  The  circumstance  which 
appears  to  me  to  render  it  doubtful  how  far  it  may 
prove  useful  in  typhus,  is  that  here  the  due  supply 
of  fluids,  as  well  as  of  nervous  influence,  fails.” f 
The  battery  current,  as  a stimulant  of  secretion, 
might,  in  this  case,  be  employed,  as  well  as  the  arous- 
ing application  of  the  electro-magnetic  shocks.  The 
battery  current,  however,  should  not  be  sent  through 
congested  organs,  where  an  increase  of  action  would 
be  injurious.  The  application  would,  with  propriety, 
be  directed  to  the  spinal  column. 


* N.  Y.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sc.  May,  1847. 
t Vital  Functions,  2d  ed.  p.  309. 


104 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


153.  It  may  also  be  observed  here,  that  the  bat- 
tery current  may  exert  a favorable  influence,  in  ty- 
phoid conditions,  over  the  blood  and  tissues,  where 
there  is  a tendency  to  disorganization  and  loss  of  vital 
character.  For  this  purpose,  the  sponge  handles, 
moistened  with  spirit  or  ammonia,  might  be  moved 
freely  over  the  surface'  of  the  body,  stimulating  the 
skin,  at  the  same  time  that  an  organizing  influence 
would  be  exerted  over  the  tissues  and  blood  in  the 
capillaries. 

154.  Asiatic  Cholera.  — Galvanism  was  recom- 
mended, in  cholera,  as  early  as  1825,  by  Dr.  Ainslie, 
in  India,*  who  .states,  that  where  the  morbific  influ- 
ence was  overpowering,  in  the  commencement,  he 
“ should  have  recourse  to  galvanism  to  supply  the 
deficiency  of  nervous  influence  in  the  sinking  frame.’ - 
The  use  of  electricity  was  subsequently  urged,  in 
England,  in  1832,  by  Dr.  Wilson  Philip  and  others, 
and  some  results  of  interest,  though  imperfect,  were 
obtained.  With  the  improved  appliances  which 
we  now  possess,  this  most  powerful  reactive  agent 
should  be  fully  tested  in  this  disease.  Two  cases 
are  reported,  by  Dr.  Knight,  of  Edinburgh,!  in  which 
galvanism  was  used  without  effect ; the  first  pa- 
tient being  in  a moribund  state,  and  the  second 
far  advanced  in  the  disease.  A want  of  informa- 
tion seems  also  to  have  existed,  as  to  the  modes  of 
application. 

155.  Dr.  C.  F.  Favell,  senior  physician  of  the 


* Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  Jan.  1832. 
f Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  March,  1832. 


CHOLERA. 


105 


Sheffield  Cholera  Hospital,*  reports  the  two  following 
cases  of  cholera,  treated  in  part  by  electricity. 

I.  A man,  aged  30,  was  admitted,  at  10  A.  M.,  in  a 
favorable  state  for  treatment.  He  was  ordered  two 
grains  of  mercury  every  five  minutes,  and  to  have 
mercurial,  frictions.  At  noon,  he  was  sinking  rapid- 
ly ; stools  involuntary ; cramps  in  the  calves ; pulse 
quick  and  small.  Port  wine  was  given,  and  an  injec- 
tion of  warm  water,  with  opium.  At  5 P.  M.  stools 
less  copious,  pulse  indistinct,  surface  cold,  voice  much 
affected,  eyes  sunken,  urine  deficient.  Galvanism 
was  then  applied,  from  the  neck  to  the  pit  of  the 
stomach,  and  from  the  wrists*  to  the  ankles.  The 
pulse  became  more  perceptible,  and  voice  strong,  with 
a disposition  to  sleep.  During  the  night,  the  patient 
slept ; countenance  improved,  pulse  one  hundred  and 
twenty  and  stronger,  tongue  cleaner,  voice  more 
natural,  urine  still  deficient,  no  purging,  and  little 
sickness.  Mercurial  treatment  continued.  No  ptya- 
lism  ensued,  but  some  dysenteric  symptoms.  The 
man  recovered  in  less  than  a month.  The  reaction, 
in  this  case,  was  ascribed  exclusively  to  galvanism. 

II.  A man,  aged  36,  admitted  at  9£  A.  M.,  with  purg- 
ing, vomiting,  and  cramps;  countenance  sunk,  tongue 
sodden  and  cold,  pulse  small  and  quick.  Sinapisms 
and  hot  sand  were  ordered  to  legs  and  feet,  enemata 
of  opium  and  alum,  and,  internally,  neutral  salts.  At 
3 P.  M.  pulse  irregular,  sometimes  insensible,  surface 
cold,  hands  blue,  stools  less  frequent.  Galvanism 


* Lond.  Lancet.  March  2,  1833. 


106 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


was  then  passed  from  the  neck  to  the  epigastrium, 
for  twenty  minutes.  It  was  then  passed  to  the  hand. 
The  pulse  became  stronger  and  fuller,  and  the  blue- 
ness disappeared  from  that  hand.  Wine  and  water 
were  given.  He  became  again  subsequently  worse. 
Stimulating  injections  and  frictions  were  ordered, 
and  the  galvanism  was  repeated.  He  then  gradually 
recovered. 

156.  Dr.  Favell  states  that  in  every  case,  in  addi- 
tion to  these,  in  which  galvanism  was  tried,  the  most 
decided  and  immediate  benefit  resulted,  though  he 
by  no  means  cured  all  his  patients.  In  cholera, 
where  there  is  already  an  excess  of  secretion,  it 
would  seem  that  stimulation  should  be  addressed 
chiefly  to  the  nervous  system ; and  it  may  be  a ques- 
tion whether  the  uninterrupted  battery  current  should 
be  employed,  except,  perhaps,  through  the  limbs,  to 
allay  the  spasms  of  the  muscular  system. 

157.  Neuralgia.  — This  disease  has  been  treated 
with  great  success  by  many  applications  of  elec- 
tricity. M.  Magendie  strongly  recommends  acu- 
puncture in  obstinate  neuralgia  of  the  face.*  One 
of  the  needles  constituting  the  positive  pole  should 
be  inserted  by  a sudden  thrust  near  the  origin  of  the 
nerve,  and  the  other  needle,  connected  with  the  neg- 
ative pole,  should  be  inserted  near  the  termination  or 
expansion  of  the  nerve.  Magendie  uses  the  magneto- 
electric machine,  the  application  being  seldom  more 
than  a few  seconds.  Sometimes  it  is  necessary  to 


* Medico- Chirurg.  Rev.  (July,  1841),  from  Gaz.  Med. 


NEURALGIA. 


107 


pursue  the  pain  to  another  branch  of  the  same  nerve. 
The  following  case  deserves  attention. 

158.  “ M.  Thelin  had  been  subject  to  frequent 
attacks  of  most  severe  neuralgia,  affecting  the  supe- 
rior maxillary  nerve  of  the  left  side,  when  he  first 
consulted  M.  Magendie.  The  pain  in  the  gums,  lips, 
cheek,  and  ala  nasi,  was  insupportable.  The  patient 
could  scarcely  utter  a word,  and  as  for  mastication,  it 
was  impossible.  All  methods  of  treatment  had  been 
tried,  and  all  tried  in  vain.  What  with  having  many 
of  his  teeth  extracted,  and  being  leeched,  and  blistered, 
and  physicked  for  months  and  months  at  a time,  his 
constitution  had  suffered  severely.  He  consulted  M. 
Magendie  on  the  5th  of  March,  1838.  At  one  sitting 
of  a few  minutes,  the  pain  was  chasse.  Since  that 
period,  whenever  the  neuralgia  returned,  he  repaired 
to  M.  Magendie,  and  always  left  him  cured  of  his 
suffering.  It  is  now  several  months  since  he  has  had 
an  attack. ” 

159.  In  two  cases  of  neuralgia  of  the  tongue,  re- 
ported by  M.  Magendie,  one  of  the  needles  was  insert- 
ed into  the  affected  side  of  the  tongue,  the  other  into 
the  trunk  of  the  facial  nerve,  where  it  enters  tki 
parotid  gland.  In  one  case,  the  pain  in  the  tongue 
immediately  ceased,  and  fixed  itself  in  the  mental 
branch  of  the  inferior  maxillary  nerve.  The  needle 
was  transferred  from  the  tongue  to  the  skin  over  the 
foramen  mentale . The  pain  was  then  driven  to  the 
infra-orbital  nerve,  and  the  needle  transferred  to  the 
aperture  whence  the  nerve  escapes.  The  pain  was 
thus  pursued,  and  expelled  at  a single  sitting.  In  the 


108 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


other  case,  the  pain,  driven  from  the  tongue,  went  to  * 
the  sub-orbital  nerve,  and  again  back  to  the  tongue, 
but  was  ultimately  expelled.  M.  Magendie  has  found 
electricity  particularly  useful  in  neuralgia  of  the 
branches  of  the  fifth  pair.* 

160.  M.  James,  after  referring  to  the  treatment  of 
M.  Magendie, f states  that  he  himself  uses  sometimes 
electro-magnetism,  sometimes  the  battery.  The  nee- 
dles, of  gold  or  platinum,  are  inserted  in  contact  with 
the  affected  nerve.  Their  insertion  rarely  gives  pain. 
Blood-vessels  should  be  avoided.  A temporary  cure 
is  effected  at  once ; but  a permanent  cure  requires 
several  sittings. 

161.  A tailor,  aged  47,  under  the  care  of  Dr.  John 
Grantham,  J was  attacked,  in  1829,  with  severe  par- 
oxysmal neuralgia  of  the  right  facial  nerve,  attended 
with  contraction  of  the  facial  muscles.  In  1835, 

after  the  removal  of  decayed  teeth,  and  salivation,  he 

» 

was  relieved  from  pain  for  three  months.  On  its 
return,  arsenic  was  tried,  ineffectually;  but  carbonate 
of  iron  gave  a second  respite  of  three  months.  An 
attack,  of  terrible  severity,  then  took  place,  which 
gradually  declined,  after  the  extraction  of  another 
tooth.  Carbonate  of  iron,  and  galvanism  from  twenty- 
four  pairs  applied  to  the  head,  were  next  employed, 
which  was  followed  by  a respite  of  two  months,  when 
a return  of  still  greater  violence  took  place.  Exercise 
was  next  tried,  without  much  effect.  A battery  of 


* Med.  Chirurg.  Rev.  April,  1846. 

f Ed.  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.  July,  1841.  — Braithe  waite,  Part  IY. 
% Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  April,  1837. 


SCIATICA. 


109 


forty  pairs  was  then  employed,  the  contact  with  the 
skin  being  made  with  a shilling  attached  to  the 
wires.  The  power  was  sufficient  to  excoriate  the 
skin,  and  the  current  was  passed  through  the  princi- 
pal nerves  of  the  head  and  face.  Carbonate  of  soda 
was  given  daily  during  this  treatment.  In  two 
months,  the  patient  was  better  than  at  any  previous 
time,  and.  remained  well  in  March,  1837,  six  months 
afterwards. 

162.  Sciatica.  — Dr.  E.  Hermel,  in  the  Annales 
$[edico-P sycliologiques , of  March,  1844,*  states  that 
electro-puncture  is  efficient  in  idiopathic  or  essential 
neuralgia.  The  intensity  of  pain  is  no  contraindi- 
cation, and  it  is  not  increased  by  the  application. 
Palsy,  supervening  on  essential  neuralgia,  is  removed 
by  electro-puncture.  These  conclusions  are  illus- 
trated by  the  following  cases,  mostly  of  sciatica. 

I.  A man,  in  the  Hotel  Dieu,  aged  44,  afflicted 
with  traumatic  neuralgia  of  the  sacro-lumbar  and 
lesser  sciatic  nerves,  of  five  months’  duration.  Vapor 
baths  had  been  very  useful.  Subsequently,  moxas 
had  been  employed  without  benefit.  The  needle, 
connected  with  the  positive  pole  of  a battery  of 
twenty  pairs,  was  inserted  into  the  sacro-lumbar 
region,  and  the  negative  needle,  a little  below  the 
external  malleolus.  The  applications,  which  were 
of  ten  minutes,  excited  copious  perspiration  in  the 
limb,  which  could  immediately  afterwards  be  bent 
with  less  pain.  After  the  fourth  or  fifth  application, 


* Lond.  and  Ed.  Month.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sc.  June,  1844. 

10 


110 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


the  pain  did  not  return,  but  electro-puncture  was  still 
repeated  oh  the  three  subsequent  days. 

II.  A man  in  the  Hotel  Dieu,  aged  26,  with  neu- 
ralgia  of  the  right  peroneal  nerve,  of  fifteen  days’ 
duration,  accompanied  with  convulsive  movements. 
Exacerbations  at  night.  The  first  application  re- 
moved the  night  pains,  and  lessened  the  movements. 
After  the  third,  the  punctures  became  painful,  and 
a suppurating  pustule  appeared  later,  which  was 
speedily  healed.  No  further  application  was  made, 
and  he  left  the  hospital  cured.  There  was  no  per- 
spiration of  the  limb  in  this  case. 

III.  A man  with  sciatica,  of  four  months’  standing, 
was  the  subject  of  a single  application.  It  is  referred 
to  as  having  produced  a copious  sweat. 

IV.  A woman,  at  the  Hotel  Dieu,  aged  70,  laboring 
under  sciatica,  of  a very  aggravated  character,  of  six 
months’  standing.  One  application  caused  copious 
sweating,  and  effected  a cure. 

V.  A harness-maker,  aged  33,  at  the  Hotel  Dieu, 
with  neuralgia  of  the  lumbar  plexus,  of  a month’s 
standing.  It  had  been  relieved  by  leeching  and 
cupping,  but  had  returned.  One  needle  was  inserted 
in  the  right  lumbar  region,  the  other  just  within  the 
anterior  superior  spine  of  the  ileum.  Twenty  pairs 
of  plates  were  used  for  twelve  minutes,  which  gave 
relief.  Some  slight  shooting  pains  remaining,  the 
application  was  repeated,  three  days  later,  with  thirty 
pairs  of  plates.  From  this  time  he  remained  well, 
and  was  dismissed  eight  days  after. 

VI.  A butcher’s  boy,  at  the  Hotel  Dieu,  with 


SCIATICA. 


Ill 


double  sciatica  and  paralysis,  of  five  weeks’  standing. 
The  first  application  brought  the  pain  to  an  end, 
and  was  followed  by  involuntary  discharge  of  urine 
during  the  night.  Several  applications  were  made 
afterwards,  and  in  thirteen  days  he  was  cured,  and  in 
twenty-one  days  dismissed. 

VII.  A laborer,  aged  45,  in  the  Hotel  Dieu,  with 
double  sciatica  and  partial  paralysis,  of  a month’s 
standing.  He  complained  of  almost  total  want  of 
sleep.  After  the  first  application  of  electro-puncture, 
a copious  sweat  occurred  in  both  limbs,  with  imme- 
diate relief  to  the  pain,  and  increased  power  of  motion. 
He  also  slept  well.  On  the  next  day,  it  was  repeated 
with  equal  advantage.  Application  was  suspended  for 
sixteen  days,  the  vapor  bath  being  substituted.  He 
was  then  able  to  walk  with  only  a stick;  but,  on 
account  of  a four  hours’  return  of  pain  in  the  right 
thigh,  electro-puncture  was  used  for  the  third  time, 
with  the  effect  of  permanent  relief,  until  his  dis- 
missal, nine  days  later,  a slight  numbness  only 
remaining. 

VIII.  A man,  aged  27,  with  severe  sciatica,  of 
fifteen  days’  standing,  following  meningitis.  Electro- 
puncture, beef  tea,  and  an  anodyne,  were  pre- 
scribed. The  first  application  was  with  difficulty 
borne  for  four  minutes.  The  next  day,  the  patient 
better,  and  electro-puncture  applied  for  ten  minutes. 
The  pain  ceased,  but  he  was  still  unable  to  stand. 
The  next  day,  electro-puncture  for  the  third  time. 
He  stood  and  walked.  Two  days  later,  he  was 
dismissed,  cured. 


112 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


163.  The  following  cases  are  related  by  MM. 
Bally  and  Meyraux. 

I.  A man,  aged  63  years,  in  the  Hospital  de  la 
Pitie,*  in  1825,  having  femoral  neuralgia  of  eight 
years’  standing,  was  subjected  to  electro-puncture. 
One  rjeedle  was  inserted  in  the  lumbar  region,  the 
other  in  the  middle  of  the  inner  part  of  the  thigh. 
The  patient’s  constitution  was  irritable,  and  strong 
contractions  were  produced  by  a current  from  four  to 
six  pairs.  After  the  second  application,  the  intervals 
of  paroxysm  became  longer,  and  the  paroxysms 
themselves  shorter.  After  five  applications,  he  was 
completely  cured. 

II.  A man,  aged  26  years,  with  sciatica,  which 
had  prevented  an  upright  position  for  six  months, 
and  on  which  the  usual  treatment,  including  simple 
acu-puncture,  had  been  exhausted,  was  subjected  by 
the  same  physicians  to  electro-puncture.  In  ten 
applications,  the  cure  was  complete. 

III.  A man  entered  the  Hospital  de  la  Pitie  with 
femoral  and  perineo-tibial  neuralgia.  The  paroxysms 
and  spasms  were  very  frequent  and  severe.  One 
needle  was  inserted  above  the  great  trochanter,  the 
other  in  the  ham.  The  first  application  occasioned 
relief,  and  a cure  followed  the  eighth. 

IV.  A man,  aged  34,  with  neuralgia  in  the  inferior 
and  inner  part  of  the  foot,  of  a very  severe  and 
paroxysmal  character.  Cured  by  eight  applications. 

164.  A case  of  sciatica  which  resisted  all  medical 


* Revue  Med.  October,  1825. 


SCIATICA. 


113 


treatment  for  several  months,  but  yielded  to  electro- 
puncture in  fifteen  days,  is  reported  in  the  Revue 
Medico- Chirurgicale  of  December,  1847.  The  pa- 
tient had  been  twice  confined  for  some  weeks  to 
his  bed  by  the  disease,  frequently  passing  sleepless 
nights.  The  limb  finally  had  wasted  considerably, 
and  was  kept  in  absolute  rest,  as  the  only  condition 
of  exemption  from  the  most  severe  suffering.  The 
patient  was  much  reduced,  by  sleeplessness  and  pain. 
Galvano-puncture  was  then  employed,  with  twenty- 
five  pairs,  gradually  increased  in  number.  The  first 
application  was  exceedingly  painful,  but  some  hours 
of  relief  followed  its  use,  so  that  the  operation  was 
subsequently  performed  late  in  the  day,  that  the  res- 
pite might  be  available  to  the  patient  for  sleep.  In 
eight  days,  the  patient  could  stand  upon  the  limb, 
and  in  fifteen  days  the  application  was  abandoned ; 
and  shortly  after,  the  patient  returned  to  his  home. 
At  a later  period,  his  health  was  fully  reestablished, 
without  any  return  of  the  affection. 

165.  In  the  Lancet  of  July,  1827,  Dr.  Marchant, 
of  Hemsworth,  relates  his  own  case,  in  which  the 
pain  extended  from  the  sacrum  to  the  hip.  Leeches, 
blisters,  opium,  and  other  remedies  were  employed, 
with  some  amelioration  of  the  symptoms,  but  not  be- 
yond the  point  at  which  a crutch  could  be  dispensed 
with.  Sparks  were  then  drawn,  night  and  morning, 
for  fifteen  minutes,  from  the  affected  parts,  which 
treatment  was  followed,  in  a week,  by  material  im- 
provement, and  in  three  weeks  an  entire  cure.  It  is 
stated  in  the  Reports  of  Guy’s  Hospital,  that  relief 
10* 


114 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


was  often  obtained,  in  sciatica,  by  drawing  sparks 
from  the  seat  of  pain. 

166.  Neuralgic  Affection  of  the  Bladder.  — A man, 
above  40  years  of  age,  under  the  care  of  Dr.  Hoe- 
ring,* suffered  from  severe  pain  of  the  bladder,  oc- 
casioned by  cold,  and  aggravated  by  the  frequent 
passage  of  water.  One  conductor,  enclosed  in  a ca- 
outchouc catheter,  was  inserted  in  the  bladder,  and 
the  other  applied  to  the  epigastrium.  A cure  was 
effected  by  sixteen  applications. 

167.  Neuralgic  Rheumatism.  — A correspondent 
of  the  Boston  Medical  and  Surgical  Journal  f furnish- 
es a case,  of  two  years’  standing,  in  which  the  arm 
was  affected  with  this  complaint,  occurring  periodi- 
cally in  the  night.  After  a few  applications  of  gal- 
vanism and  the  use  of  a stimulating  liniment,  the 
patient  reported  himself  well,  save  a slight  numbness 
of  the  fingers,  which  was  successfully  treated  by 
strychnine. 

168.  Condition  of  Pain.  — The  simple  condition 
of  pain  or  uneasiness  has  been  spoken  of  by  writers 
as  allied  to  neuralgia,  and  one  which  may  often  be 
removed  by  electricity,  and  which,  in  connection 
with  special  diseases,  may  properly  become  a subject 
of  treatment. 

169.  Nervous  Headache.  — This  affection  has 
been  represented  as  easily  and  rapidly  curable,  by 
passing  the  electro-magnetic  or  galvanic  currents 
through  the  brain,  from  the  back  of  the  neck  to  the 


* Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  June,  1847. 
t Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.  Oct.  1846. 


HYSTERIA. 


115 


forehead.  The  sponge  handles  may  be  conveniently 
used,  and  the  application,  if  properly  modulated,  will 
not  be  found  painful  or  disagreeable.  There  are 
some  places  upon  the  forehead,  in  the  course  of 
nerves,  which  are  peculiarly  sensitive,  and  which 
will  be  readily  discovered.  This  application  of  the 
current  to  the  brain  deserves  to  be  carefully  studied, 
as  regards  its  influence  over  the  intellectual  as  well 
as  organic  functions. 

170.  Sick  Headache.  — This  complaint  may  be 
treated  in  the  same  way  as  the  above,  but  with  less 
certainty  or  permanence  of  relief.  The  treatment 
should  be  also  directed  to  the  stomach  and  liver. 

171.  Nervous  Irritability. — In  approaching  dis- 
eases of  a spasmodic  or  convulsive  character,  electrical 
shocks,  for  the  most  part,  cease  to  be  indicated,  and 
a resort  becomes  necessary  to  the  uninterrupted  cur- 
rent of  the  battery,  which  promotes,  in  a very  high 
degree,  the  regularity  of  nervous  action,  or  to  the 
electrical  spark.  In  nervous  irritability,  the  stimulus 
of  the  electro-magnetic  shock  may  overcome  a slight 
form  of  disorder  ; but  in  graver  cases,  this  application 
is  no  longer  beneficial,  and  may  even  become  injuri- 
ous. The  treatment  hereafter  indicated  in  chorea 
would  then  be  appropriate. 

172.  Hysteria.  — No  authentic  cases  have  been 
found  on  record  of  the  treatment  of  simple  hysteria; 
but  this  condition  is  allied  to  others  which  have  been 
treated  by  electricity  with  so  much  benefit,  that  the 
battery  current  may  rationally  be  employed  in  the 
paroxysms  of  this  disorder.  The  uninterrupted  cur- 


116 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


rent  should  be  passed  down  the  spine,  or  across  the 
chest,  by  means  of  the  conductors  held  in  each  hand. 
The  remarks  in  the  preceding  paragraph,  and  under 
the  head  of  Chorea,  will  apply  to  this  disease. 

173.  Palpitation  of  the  Heart. — Palpitation, 
where  the  result  of  irregular  or  deficient  nervous 
action,  is  a proper  subject  for  electrical  application.  A 
feeble  current  from  the  battery  may  be  passed  from 
the  spine  to  the  chest,  so  as  to  traverse  the  heart. 
The  regular  action  of  the  heart  is  then  generally 
increased.  An  interrupted  current  would  produce,  on 
the  other  hand,  still  greater  irregularity.  A powerful 
current  should  be  avoided,  as  it  may  occasion,  at  least, 
distressing  sensations.  The  handle  applied  to  the 
spine  may  be  moved,  during  the  operation,  over  the 
upper  half  of  the  vertebral  column.  The  current 
may  also  be  made  to  traverse  the  chest  by  allowing 
the  patient  to  hold  the  cylinder  handles. 

174.  Asthma.  — That  form  of  this  disease  which 
may  be  called  habitual  asthma,  or  difficult  respiration, 
is  simulated  by  division  of  the  eighth  pair  of  nerves 
in  animals.  This  induced  Wilson  Philip*  to  resort 
to  galvanism,  in  such  cases,  in  the  human  subject, 
and  almost  uniformly  with  relief.  From  eight  to  six- 
teen pairs  were  usually  employed.  Two  thin  plates 
Df  metal,  dipped  in  water,  were  applied,  one  to  the 
.'iape  of  the  neck,  the  other  to  the  pit  of  the  stomach, 
or  rather  lower.  The  wires  from  the  battery  were 
constantly  moved  over  these,  to  avoid  injuring  the 


* Vital  Functions,  2d  ed.  p.  331. 


ASTHMA. 


117 


cuticle  beneath.  The  breathing  became  easy,  some- 
times immediately,  generally  in  from  five  to  fifteen 
minutes.  He  found  it  equally  efficacious  in  cases  of 
from  ten  to  twenty  years’  standing.  In  all  of  the 
cases  to  which  it  was  applied,  the  patients  had  been 
able  to  return  to  their  occupations,  and  the  relief  had 
continued,  in  many  cases,  for  several  months,  with- 
out relapse,  and  in  others,  had  been  again  obtained 
from  the  same  source.  In  inflammatory  cases  of 
asthma,  Wilson  Philip  found  the  application  of  gal- 
vanism injurious,  until  the  tendency  was  subdued  by 
blood-letting.  The  presence  of  a severe  cough  was 
not  found  to  contra-indicate  the  use  of  galvanism ; 
but,  on  the  other  hand,  the  cough  was  relieved  by 
the  removal  of  phlegm,  which  took  place  in  conse- 
quence of  the  application. 

175.  The  following  are  furnished  by  Wilson  Philip, 
as  illustrations  of  the  most  and  least  successful  cases 
of  asthma,  in  which  galvanism  was  employed  by 
him. 

I.  A lady,  aged  35,  for  many  years  subject  to 
habitual  asthma ; — breathing  very  much  oppressed. 
The  immediate  effect  of  the  application  was  to  give 
greater  ease  than  she  had  experienced  for  years.  Part 
of  this  relief  remained  permanent,  and  when  galvan- 
ized for  ten  minutes  daily,  she  suffered  little  dyspnoea. 
On  one  occasion,  to  try  the  effect  of  imagination,  he 
deceived  the  patient  by  scratching  the  wire  upon  the 
neck,  without  allowing  the  passage  of  the  galvanic 
current.  No  relief  was  felt.  He  then  passed  it  from 
the  neck  to  the  upper  part  of  the  chest,  when  slight 


118 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


relief  was  obtained.  Finally,  the  current  was  passed 
to  the  pit  of  the  stomach,  when  the  usual  effect  of 
former  applications  was  experienced. 

II.  A young  woman,  who  had  been  several  times 
galvanized  in  the  usual  way,  was  treated  by  a cur- 
rent passing  down  the  spine.  The  breathing  was 
easier,  but  less  so  than  on  former  occasions ; and  after 
exertion,  she  was  obliged  to  have  recourse  to  galvan- 
ism, as  previously  administered.  This  patient  re- 
mained free  from  the  disease  for  half  a year,  when 
she  returned  with  a slighter  attack,  which  yielded 
immediately  to  galvanism,  in  connection  with  reme- 
dies, which  alone  had  proved  inactive. 

III.  A blacksmith,  aged  50,  with  severe  habitual 
asthma  of  seven  months’  standing.  Cough  trouble- 
some, with  thick,  yellowish  expectoration.  After 
three  applications  of  galvanism,  for  about  ten  minutes 
each  time,  he  declared  himself  well,  and  resumed 
work.  Several  weeks  later,  the  disease  was  renewed 
by  intoxication,  and  he  was  again  relieved  with  equal 
facility.  During  ten  months,  several  slighter  attacks 
occurred,  following  exposure,  which  were  immediate- 
ly relieved  in  the  same  manner. 

IV.  A gloveress,  aged  28,  with  asthma  of  four 
years’  standing.  The  breathing  was  rendered  easy, 
in  a few  minutes,  by  galvanism,  and  after  the  second 
application,  continued  so.  Three  weeks  later,  she 
experienced  some  return  of  dyspnoea,  which  was 
relieved  by  a blister,  which  had  been  previously  tried 
with  slight  effect.  During  several  months  after,  she 
remained  well. 


ASTHMA. 


119 


V A female  domestic,  aged  30,  with  asthma  of 
two  months’  standing.  She  was  relieved  in  a few 
minutes,  and  after  three  applications,  remained  well 
for  several  weeks.  Reference  is  made  by  Wilson 
Philip  to  several  other  similar  cases. 

VI.  A laborer,  formerly  a soldier,  aged  68.  He 
was  unable  to  walk,  save  at  a slow  pace,  and  some- 
times had  been  obliged  wholly  to  abandon  work. 
During  his  most  severe  attack,  he  was  relieved  in  a 
few  minutes  by  galvanism ; and  after  three  weeks  of 
daily  applications  of  ten  minutes  each,  the  relief  be- 
came permanent.  A sense  of  sinking  in  the  stomach 
was  perceived  in  this  as  in  the  previous  case,  after 
the  application  of  electricity  (probably  from  the 
stimulation  of  that  organ),  which  was  removed  by 
carbonate  of  iron.  After  two  years,  this  patient  had 
experienced  no  return. 

VII.  A female  domestic,  aged  40,  with  asthma  of 
five  years’  standing.  The  first  application  of  galvan- 
ism gave  great  relief;  but  this  proved  unequal  in 
subsequent  administrations.  Her  attendance  was 
irregular,  and  her  consumption  of  malt  liquor  exces- 
sive. Her  breathing  and  digestion  were  both  im- 
proved, though  the  former  continued  oppressed. 

VIII.  A female  domestic,  aged  24,  with  asthma  of 
a year’s  standing.  She  was  quickly  relieved  by  gal- 
vanism, but  the  effect  was  not  permanent.  She  was 
cured,  subsequently,  by  an  alterative  course  of  med- 
icines,— in  part,  as  Whlson  Philip  suggests,  a result 
of  the  previous  electrical  treatment. 

IX.  A domestic,  aged  29,  with  severe  asthma  of  a 


120 


NERVOU  S SYSTEM. 


year’s  standing,  and  an  inflammatory  tendency.  She 
was  much  relieved  by  a few  minutes’  application, 
and  her  case  improved  for  ten  days,  when  galvanism 
failed  of  its  effect.  The  epigastrium  was  now  tender 
on  pressure.  This  was  removed  by  blood-letting, 
blistering,  and  small  doses  of  calomel.  Galvanism 
became  then  more  efficient  even  than  in  the  com- 
mencement, and  she  finally  left  much,  though  not 
entirely,  relieved. 

X.  A woman,  who  had  for  many  years  labored 
under  habitual  asthma,  was  galvanized  incautiously 
with  such  power  as  to  occasion  severe  pain,  and  a 
refusal  to  submit  herself  again  to  the  application. 
She  had  obtained,  however,  immediate  relief  to  her 
breathing,  a part  of  which  remained  permanent  many 
months  afterwards. 

176.  In  a paper,  read  by  M.  Pascalis  before  the 
Royal  Academy  of  Medicine,*  some  general  remarks 
are  made  upon  the  treatment  of  asthma,  and  the 
following  cases  are  given. 

I.  A woman,  aged  32,  an  enamel  worker,  had  been 
asthmatic  for  ten  years.  Of  late,  the  disease  had 
increased,  and  for  periods  of  fifteen  or  twenty  days, 
there  would  be  a diurnal  access  of  alarming  severity. 
This  would  be  followed  by  an  interval  of  compara- 
tive rest  for  two  or  three  weeks.  The  current  from 
a galvanic  pile  was  passed  from  the  back  of  the  neck 
to  the  stomach.  With  the  first  application,  the 
inspiration,  cough,  and  expectoration,  became  easier; 


* Revue  Med.  Feb.  1824. 


ASTHMA. 


121 


the  rale,  previously  loud,  was  hardly  to  he  heard. 
After  eight  sittings,  in  the  course  of  fifteen  days,  she 
was  presented  in  the  following  condition.  — The 
specific  attacks  had  ceased.  The  patient,  for  the 
first  time,  could  assume  a horizontal  position.  She 
could  walk  without  suffocation.  A goitre  sufficient 
to  embarrass  respiration,  had  diminished,  within 
these  few  days,  an  inch  and  a half  in  circumference. 
The  patient  was  able  to  laugh,  without  distress, 
from  which  she  had  been  long  prevented.  As  a last 
effect,  the  application  had  determined  frequent  daily 
discharges  from  the  bowels. 

II.  Le  General  d’Aigremont,  aged  55,  had  been 
asthmatic  for  a long  time,  and  to  a very  high  degree. 
Hearing  of  the  preceding  case,  he  submitted  to  gal- 
vanization. After  the  first  sitting,  he  was  able  to 
ascend  three  flights  of  steps  without  stoppings 
although  previously  he  was  obliged  to  stop  several 
times  in  ascending  one.  After  several  applications, 
the  amelioration  was  sufficient  to  permit  singing, 
dancing,  and  ascending  several  flights  of  stairs  with- 
out trouble  ; but  it  did  not  remain  constant,  owing  to 
the  full  habit  of  the  patient,  to  imprudences,  and 
intractability,  and  to  the  date  of  the  disease.  It 
resulted,  however,  in  great  and  permanent  relief  over 
the  previous  state. 

III.  The  wife  of  a chef  de  bureau , at  the  treasury, 
had  been  asthmatic  for  three  years.  The  asthma 
was  continual,  but  with  frequent  exacerbations  of 
.ihree  to  five  hours,  or  longer,  during  which  she  did 

11 


122 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


not  expect  to  live — cough  convulsive,  rale  excessive, 
appetite  null.  There  was  a painful  condition  of 
the  larynx,  engorgement  of  the  epigastrium,  and 
frequent  palpitations  of  the  heart.  She  had  been 
attended  by  the  best  physicians  in  the  capital.  MM. 
Fouquier,  Orfila,  Leroux,  and  Bertin,  had  been 
called  in  consultation,  and  medical  treatment  ex- 
hausted. Improvement  commenced  with  the  first 
exhibition  of  galvanism.  After  five  applications,  the 
patient  assumed  a horizontal  position  the  first  time 
for  three  years.  The  pain  at  the  heart  was  less 
severe ; appetite  good.  After  eight  days,  she  as- 
cended and  descended  the  stairs,  and  walked  in  the 
court.  Gradually  the  patient,  who  was  in  an  ad- 
vanced state  of  marasmus,  recovered  a portion  of  her 
embonpoint,  and  her  other  symptoms  were  much 
improved.  This  was  her  condition  at  the  date  of 
publication.  An  examination  of  the  lungs,  by  sev- 
eral physicians,  at  this  time,  showed  the  existence  of 
emphysema  highly  developed. 

177.  M.  Pascalis  speaks  of  a metallic  taste,  of 
flashing  before  the  eyes,  of  rubefaction,  and  the 
formation  of  pustules  on  the  skin  under  the  metallic 
conductor,  and  some  movement  of  the  stomach  as 
attendants  on  the  galvanic  application;  also  a strong 
titillation  of  the  throat,  by  which  the  secretion  of 
mucus  is  favored.  Inspiration  becomes  deeper,  and 
expectoration  free.  The  patients  are  left  in  a state 
of  vigor,  contrasting  in  a sensible  manner  with  pre- 
vious depression. 

178.  Spasmodic  Asthma.  — Two  cases  of  this 


SPASM  OF  THE  CHEST. 


123 


form  of  asthma,  treated  by  Wilson  Philip,*  during 
the  paroxysms  showed  no  improvement.  It  is 
probable,  however,  that  the  action  was  too  over- 
powering, and  that  the  cautions,  by  means  of  which 
spasmodic  affections  have  of  late  been  treated  with 
so  much  success  by  electricity,  were  not  adopted. 

179.  Emphysema.  — This  disease,  affecting  the 
structure  of  the  lungs,  may  be  said  to  constitute  a 
form  of  asthma,  which  is  equally  under  the  control 
of  galvanism  with  that  complaint,  when  uncompli- 
cated with  structural  change.  The  structural  disease 
also  appears  to  be  removed  with  the  dyspnoea.  It 
may  be  suggested  that  the  dilatation  of  the  air-cells 
is  perpetuated  by  the  difficulty  of  respiration,  and 
that  by  relieving  the  morbid  excitement  of  the 
nerves,  which  control  the  motions  of  respiration,  an 
opportunity  is  afforded  to  the  air-cells  to  return  to 
their  original  state.  A case  has  already  been  quoted 
(§176,  III.)  of  relief  in  asthma  complicated  with  em- 
physema. 

180.  Dyspnoea.  — Difficult  respiration,  from  every 
source,  excepting  organic  lesion,  may  be  treated 
by  galvanism  with  the  prospect  of  success.  The 
same  rules  of  application  would  be  observed  as  in 
asthma. 

181.  Angina  Pectoris.  — This  disease,  so  dis- 
tressing, and  so  generally  fatal,  would  seem  to  be 
included  in  the  class  of  those  ordinarily  relieved  by 
electricity.  No  reliable  case  of  its  treatment  by 


* Yital  Functions,  2d  ed.  p.  336. 


124 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


this  means  appears  on  record.  Still,  in  the  confessed 
inutility  of  other  treatment,  the  powerful  influence 
of  galvanism  should  be  fully  tested.  The  treatment 
can  be  inferred  from  the  remarks  under  the  head  of 
asthma  and  palpitation  of  the  heart.  The  handles 
employed  would  preferably  be  the  surface  handles 
covered  with  leather.  The  current  should  not  be 
excessive.  Subjection  of  the  system  to  the  general 
influence  of  galvanism  by  the  daily  use  of  the  cylin- 
der conductors — one  held  in  each  hand — might  also 
be  advantageous. 

182.  Chorea. — Chorea,  or  St.  Vitus’s  dance,  has 
been  treated  successfully  by  the  uninterrupted  cur- 
rent of  the  battery,  and  by  the  electric  spark  drawn 
from  the  spine  of  the  patient  while  seated  on  the 
insulating  stool.  The  following  record  of  cases  at 
Guy’s  Hospital,  in  which  the  latter  method  was  em- 
ployed, will  be  found  to  possess  great  interest.  The 
first  five  cases  are  by  Dr.  Addison.* 

I.  A girl,  aged  14,  subject  to  epilepsy,  and  for  four 
years  to  periodical  chorea ; progression  and  articula- 
tion embarrassed.  After  five  applications  of  elec- 
tricity, articulation  distinct,  and  walk  almost  steady. 

In  three  weeks  a cure. 

II.  A boy,  aged  14,  with  violent  chorea,  of  which 
he  had  had  two  previous  attacks.  Little  benefit  from 
treatment  with  zinc  for  six  weeks.  Cured  by  twenty- 
two  daily  applications  of  electricity  to  the  spine. 

III.  A young  woman,  aged  21.  Had  been  in  St.  * 


* Guy’s  Hospital  Reports.  Oct.  1837. 


CHOREA. 


125 


Thomas’s  Hospital  ten  months,  with  little  benefit, 
afflicted  with  chorea,  and  disordered  menstruation, 
and  subject  to  epileptic  attacks.  The  right  side 
most  affected.  Unable  to  stand,  or  lie  quiet.  After 
electrical  treatment  for  three  or  four  months,  can 
walk  steadily.  Much  improved. 

IV.  A girl,  aged  16.  Chorea  with  deranged 
catamenia.  Aspect  “fatuous,  occasionally  wild,  and 
almost  maniacal.”  Disease  of  twelve  months’  stand- 
ing. Sparks  from  the  spine,  and  shocks  through  the 
pelvis,  for  a month.  Perfect  cure. 

V.  A girl,  aged  12,  with  chorea  and  pain  in  occi- 
put. Electricity,  every  other  day,  from  spine,  for  six 
weeks.  Cure.  Slight  return  after  two  months, 
which  yielded  to  sulphate  of  zinc. 

183.  In  Guy’s  Hospital  reports  for  1846,  Dr. 
Hughes  gives  a digest  of  one  hundred  cases  of  m 
chorea,  fourteen  of  which  were  treated  by  elec- 
tricity. Several  of  these  were  of  long  duration,  and 
of  the  most  severe  form.  A cure  was  effected  in 
nine  cases,  and  failed  in  five.  Dr.  Hughes  remarks, 

“ The  effects  of  electricity  in  chorea  are  sometimes 
very  remarkable.  On  some  occasions,  I have  known 
it  to  effect  a cure  after  a great  variety  of  other 
remedies  had  for  weeks  and  months  been  tried  in 

vain The  change  has  not  been  more 

beneficial  than  it  has  been  rapid.  In  the  course  of  a 
week  or  ten  days,  the  entire  aspect  of  the  patient 

has  been  changed When  electricity  acts 

beneficially  in  chorea,  it  produces  its  effects  more 
rapidly  than  any  other  remedy  with  which  I am 
11  * 


126 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


acquainted ; but  it  is  a remedy  which  is  not  of  uni- 
versal application  in  chorea.  In  some  patients  it  has 
obviously  done  harm.  In  weak,  nervous,  timid  chil- 
dren, electricity  increases  the  disease. ” This  state- 
ment should  be  compared  with  the  following  testi- 
mony. 

184.  Dr.  Golding  Bird  furnishes  a table  of  thirty 
cases  treated  by  electricity  in  Guy’s  Hospital,*  in 
addition  to  those  given  by  Dr.  Addison,  in  one  of 
which,  where  organic  disease  of  the  spinal  cord  was 
indicated,  there  was  no  relief;  one  left  from  alarm, 
five  were  much  relieved,  and  twenty-three  cured.  A 
few  of  these  were  under  contemporaneous  medical 
treatment  — mostly  mild  purgatives.  In  many  of  them, 
every  variety  of  treatment  had  been  exhausted  before 
having  recourse  to  electricity.  The  treatment  was 
confined  to  machine  electricity  drawn  by  sparks  from 
the  spinal  column.  The  application  was  made  every 
other  day,  for  five  minutes,  or  until  the  papular  erup- 
tion appeared  (<§>  13).  The  disease  was  sometimes 
increased  on  the  first  application,  from  the  alarm 
of  the  patient ; but  this  rapidly  subsided.  Details 
are  given  of  nine  cases,  which  may  be  thus  briefly 
stated. 

I.  A girl,  of  8 years,  with  universal  chorea,  follow- 
ing rheumatism.  Treated  by  the  ordinary  remedies 
for  a month,  without  success.  After  three  days’ 
electrical  treatment,  speaks  and  swallows  easily.  In 
sixteen  days,  not  a trace  of  chorea  left. 


Guy’s  Hospital  Reports.  April,  1841. 


CHOREA. 


127 


II.  A boy,  aged  12,  with  chorea,  apparently  caused 
by  tapeworm;  muscles  almost  universally  affected. 
Two  months’  ordinary  treatment  ineffectual.  Elec- 
tricity for  three  days.  Much  improved  ; — in  thirty- 
four  days  cured. 

III.  A girl,  aged  16.  Chorea  resulting  from  amen* 
orrhoea.  After  five  applications,  the  catamenia,  absent 
for  three  months  subsequent  to  its  first  appearance, 
recurred,  and  the  chorea  vanished.  Two  months 
later,  the  catamenia  not  appearing,  she  applied  again, 
and  a few  shocks  restored  the  function. 

IV.  A girl,  aged  15.  Chorea  from  fright,  affecting 
right  side.  In  three  weeks,  she  left,  nearly  cured. 
Disease  “returned  again  in  twenty  days.  In  thirty- 
nine  days,  discharged  well. 

V.  A girl,  aged  12,  with  chorea  confined  to  right 
arm.  After  three  applications,  she  left,  relieved. 
The  disease  again  rallied.  In  twenty-four  days,  dis- 
charged cured. 

VI.  A man,  aged  40,  with  chorea  from  exposure 
to  cold,  confined  to  sterno-mastoid  muscles.  The 
spasms,  on  any  excitement,  produced  torsion  of  the 
neck,  threatening  strangulation,  and  were  resisted  by 
the  hand  of  the  patient  applied  to  the  head.  Sparks 
taken  from  the  spine  and  sterno-mastoid  muscles.  In 
about  a month,  he  left,  tolerably  well.  Irregular 
habits  brought  on  a return.  He  was  again  subjected 
to  electricity,  and  in  a short  time  was  convalescent. 

VII.  A lad,  of  18.  Chorea  of  right  side.  In  six- 
teen days,  only  slight  affection  remaining.  Shocks 
were  now  passed  along  the  leg  and  arm.  In  three 


128 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


days,  the  disease  had  returned,  with  almost  full 
strength.  Sparks  were  again  ordered,  with  sulphate 
of  zinc,  and  in  six  weeks  he  was  discharged  cured. 

VIII.  A man,  aged  45,  with  congenital  (?)  chorea, 
causing  constant  motion  of  the  fingers,  increased  by 
excitement.  Had  continued  from  his  infancy.  After 
a fortnight’s  application,  while  under  treatment  for 
another  disease,  the  motion  remarkably  diminished. 

IX.  A man,  aged  40,  subject  to  spasms  of  the  jaw, 
producing  dislocation.  Sparks  drawn  from  affected 
muscles  with  remarkable  benefit.  Subsequently, 
under  use  of  sulphate  of  zinc,  he  was  discharged 
cured. 

185.  Dr.  Bird  has  found  that  shocks  applied  to  the 
affected  parts,  in  chorea,  are  always  injurious.  This 
agrees  with  the  universal  experience  in  spasmodic 
diseases,  in  which  the  uniform  and  harmonizing  cur- 
rent of  the  battery,  and  sometimes  the  spark,  are 
exclusively  indicated.  Dr.  Bird  considers  the  “erup- 
tion,” produced  by  his  peculiar  use  of  the  spark,  as 
contributing  much  to  the  effect.  A similar  local  irri- 
tation might  be  found  useful  in  applying  the  battery, 
as  in  Wilson  Philips’  treatment  of  asthma. 

186.  Catalepsy.  — A prisoner,  at  Beccles,*  was 
seized  with  catalepsy,  of  which  he  had  had  an  attack 
nine  years  previously.  The  upper  extremities  re- 
tained any  position  in  which  they  were  placed,  the 
power  of  swallowing  was  suspended,  and  the  pulse 
varied  from  eighty  to  one  hundred  and  twenty  beats 


* Prov.  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.  Nov.  1846. 


EPILEPSY. 


129 


in  the  minute.  After  four  days’  use  of  other  treatment, 
with  occasional  remissions,  electro-magnetic  shocks 
were  passed  through  the  right  arm.  Powerful  con- 
traction ensued,  with  convulsion  of  the  lower  jaw, 
and  rapid  protrusion  and  retraction  of  the  tongue.  A 
more  powerful  application  caused  violent  and  irregular 
respiratory  efforts,  raising  the  pulse  from  sixty  to  one 
hundred  and  forty  beats  per  minute,  and  finally  the 
lower  extremities  became  also  convulsed.  Violent 
sobbing  succeeded,  and  sensibility  gradually  returned. 
On  the  following  day,  another  attack  was  treated  in 
the  same  manner,  with  a similar  result.  A slighter 
one  subsequently  occurred,  within  a few  days,  when 
he  left  the  neighborhood.  This  case  was  under  the 
care  of  Dr.  W.  H.  Crowfoot.  The  effects  produced 
by  electro-magnetism,  in  this  case,  show,  in  a striking 
manner,  the  impropriety  of  using  the  induced  series 
of  shocks  in  any  convulsive  disease.  The  primary 
current  of  the  battery  should  be  alone  used  in  cata- 
lepsy, with  the  object  of  restoring  the  nervous  equi- 
librium and  increasing  the  nervous  power.  Galvanism 
is  stated  to  have  been  rapidly  successful,  in  similar 
cases. 

187.  Convulsions.  — In  all  convulsive  diseases  in 
which  there  is  not  organic  lesion,  benefit  may  be 
anticipated  from  the  use  of  the  uninterrupted  current 
of  the  battery  flowing  in  the  direction  of  the  ramifi- 
cations of  the  most  important  nerves,  and  especially 
in  the  course  of  the  spinal  column. 

188.  Epilepsy. — In  the  treatment  of  epilepsy, 
referred  to  the  brain,  no  advantage  was  obtained,  in 


130 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


Guy’s  Hospital,  by  Dr.  Bird,  from  the  use  of  the 
spark.  In  hysteric  epilepsy,  connected  with  derange- 
ment of  the  uterine  functions,  electricity  was  of 
material  service.  The  following  case  is  given  in 
illustration.*  A girl,  aged  15,  who  had  never  men- 
struated, became  subject  to  epileptic  attacks,  six 
months  before  admission  ; intervals  irregular,  dura- 
tion fifteen  to  twenty  minutes.  Oct.  10.  1839,  shocks 
to  be  passed  through  the  pelvis  thrice  a week.  After 
the  second  application,  pains  were  felt  in  the  back 
and  loins,  and  the  catamenia  soon  afterwards  ap- 
peared. From  this  time,  the  fits  ceased. 

189.  Dr.  Addison  relates  a similar  case,f  complica- 
ted with  chorea,  much  relieved  by  electro-magnetism. 
This  was  a girl,  aged  17,  who,  after  a violent  fright, 
was  attacked  with  chorea,  accompanied  by  peculiar 
automatic  movements  of  the  hand,  and  thenceforward 
was  subject  to  menstrual  disorder.  She  was  at  length 
seized  with  epileptic  fits,  which  had  begun  to  show 
their  worst  effects  upon  the  mind  and  active  powders. 
The  ordinary  treatment  was  exhausted,  and  the  par- 
oxysms now  returned  two  or  three  times  daily.  Elec- 
tricity was  ordered,  as  a last  resource.  On  the  20th 
of  April,  the  electro-magnetic  current  was  passed  down 
the  spine  for  the  first  time.  On  the  10th  of  May, 
she  could  use  her  needle  with  tolerable  precision,  and 
the  fits  were  slighter,  though  as  frequent.  Sparks 
were  then  drawn  from  the  spine,  every  other  day, 
with  most  marked  benefit.  June  1,  twelve  shocks 


* Guy’s  Hospital  Reports.  April,  1841. 
t Guy’s  Hospital  Reports.  Oct.  1837. 


EPILEPSY. 


131 

through  the  pelvis  were  ordered.  The  first  applica- 
tion was  followed  by  pelvic  and  abdominal  pains,  the 
immediate  precursors  of  the  catamenia.  July  3,  contin- 
ued improvement,  but  no  return  of  the  catamenia.  A 
second  exhibition  of  the  shocks  again  developed  the 
function.  July  15,  she  left  the  hospital  free  from 
chorea,  though  still  subject  to  fits  of  diminished 
force  and  frequency. 

190.  Other  cases  will  be  found  under  the  head  of 
Chorea,  in  which  epilepsy,  as  a complication,  was 
benefited  by  the  same  treatment. 

191.  A French  practitioner  * details  a case  under 
the  name  of  epilepsy,  in  which  the  patient,  a girl, 
aged  12,  had  been  subject  to  attacks  since  her  sixth 
year,  in  consequence  of  a fright.  Galvano-puncture 
was  used.  One  needle  was  inserted  immediately 
beneath  the  occiput,  the  other  in  the  integument  of 
the  epigastric  region.  The  first  application  was  dur- 
ing a seizure,  and  was  followed  by  an  immediate 
return  of  sensibility.  It  was  repeated  on  the  follow- 
ing day,  and  no  fit  took  place  for  a week.  Two 
attacks  then  occurred,  at  intervals  of  eight  days. 
Subsequently  the  application  was  made  at  the  com- 
mencement of  the  seizure,  and  a respite  of  a month 
ensued,  after  which,  during  six  months,  the  disease 
had  not  returned. 

192.  In  true  epilepsy,  electro-magnetism  should 
not  be  employed  ; the  use  of  the  spark  is  at  best 
doubtful  ; while  the  uniform  current  of  the  battery 


Lancet.  July,  1843. 


L32 


N I l.  \ OIJ  S SYSTE  JV1 . 


deserves  always  a trial,  and  in  epilepsy,  without 
organic  change  in  the  nerve  centres,  it  may  be 
expected  to  produce  a favorable  effect. 

193.  Tetanus. — Matteucci  states  that  the  pas- 
sage of  the  continued  current  of  the  battery  in  the 
direction  of  the  ramification  of  the  nerves,  exhausts 
their  excitability,  and  prevents  spasm  in  the  case  of 
frogs  tetanized  by  narcotics.*  To  reduce  the  ner- 
vous irritability  in  tetanus  and  convulsive  diseases,  he 
urges  therefore  this  use  of  the  current  of  the  battery. 
A case  of  tetanus,  which  came  under  the  observation 
of  Matteucci  at  an  earlier  date,  is  given  below. 

194.  D.  Branzanti,  aged  51  years, f received  a 
charge  of  shot  above  the  internal  malleolus  of  the 
left  ankle.  After  the  cicatrization,  symptoms  of  teta- 
nus appeared.  The  current  of  thirty  to  thirty-five 
galvanic  pairs  was  then  passed  from  the/back  of  the 
neck  to  the  sacrum,  to  the  abdomen,  and  to  the 
wounded  limb.  The  time  of  application  was  twenty 
to  thirty  minutes,  and  it  was  repeated  six  times  dur- 
ing seventy  hours.  Each  time  the  patient  seemed 
more  calm,  and  the  spasms  of  the  jaw  and  muscles 
diminished.  The  warmth  of  the  surface  was  also 
increased,  perspiration  reestablished,  secretion  of  the 
kidneys  excited,  and  the  capillary  circulation  quick 
ened.  Unfortunately,  this  amelioration  ceased  about 
half  an  hour  after  each  application,  the  condition  of 
the  patient  grew  worse,  and  he  finally  yielded  to  the 
violence  of  the  disease.  A post-mortem  examination 


* Lancet.  Aug.  1847. 
t Revue  Med.  Oct.  1839. 


TETANUS. 


133 


showed  softening  of  the  spinal  cord,  and  entire  dis- 
organization in  the  branches  which  form  the  cauda 
equina.  No  other  result  could,  therefore,  have  been 
anticipated,  at  least  in  the  latter  part  of  the  disease. 
The  use  of  the  battery  current  is  here  shown  in 
calming  spasmodic  excitement.  M.  Matteucci,  in 
communicating  the  above  case  to  the  French  Acade- 
my,* remarks,  that  the  impression  of  the  beneficial 
effect  of  this  application  was  such  upon  those  phy- 
sicians who  were  present,  that  they  would  at  once 
resort  to  it  in  similar  cases.  The  experiment  was 
not  thoroughly  satisfactory,  in  that  the  battery  was 
out  of  order,  and  could  only  be  used  in  the  intermit- 
tent way  described  above,  instead  of  continuously. 

195.  Dr.  Taylor  reports  a case  of  tetanus,  occa- 
sioned by  a blister,  in  a lady  aged  30.  The  jaw 
was  firmly  closed,  and  other  tetanic  symptoms  pres- 
ent. The  most  powerful  antispasmodic  treatment 
was  employed,  including  ether  to  the  shaved  head, 
belladonna  to  the  face,  and  opium,  by  draught  and 
injection.  The  spasm  increased  so  that  the  body 
was  bent  like  a bow,  and  supported  only  by  the 
heels  and  occiput.  Weak  shocks  from  a Leyden 
jar  were  then  administered  to  the  face,  which  soon 
produced  relaxation  of  the  jaws  and  muscles  of  the 
abdomen,  accompanied  with  exhaustion.  Wine  and 
a suppository  of  opium  were  ordered.  The  patient 
slept,  but  in  the  morning  suffered  another  paroxysm. 
Electricity  now  applied  was  without  effect,  until 


* Revue  Med.  June,  1838. 
12 


134 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


opium  had  been  administered  for  two  hours,  when 
relaxation  of  the  muscles  was  again  produced  by  the 
same  means.  The  patient  gradually  recovered.  Dr. 
Taylor  ascribes  the  success  to  the  conjoint  use  of 
the  opium  and  electricity.  The  form  of  application 
in  this  case  was  so  unfavorable,  that  the  full  effect 
of  electrical  treatment  could  not  be  observed. 

196.  Dr.  J.  Adams  relates  two  cases  of  traumatic 
tetanus,  in  the  London  Hospital,  in  which  he  at- 
tributes the  cure  to  electricity.* 

I.  A boy,  of  7 years,  seized  with  tetanic  symp- 
toms, in  consequence  of  laceration  of  the  skin  and 
muscles  of  the  calf  of  the  leg.  Spastic  curvature  of 
the  spine  appeared.  Opium  gave  no  relief.  Sparks 
of  machine  electricity  were  then  drawn  from  the 
spine,  while  on  the  insulating  stool,  with  at  first 
an  aggravation  of  the  spasms ; but  afterward  with 
decided  improvement,  the  curvature  of  the  spine 
relaxing  under  its  influence.  It  was  frequently 
repeated  with  the  best  effect,  until  it  seemed  to  have 
lost  its  power;  and  on  the  third  day  a relapse  oc- 
curred. Opium  and  strychnine  were  then  resorted 
to,  and  gradually  proved  effectual,  the  child  entirely 
recovering.  In  this  case,  the  primary  current  of  the 
battery  was  strongly  indicated,  and  would,  it  may  be 
presumed,  have  proved  more  powerful,  as  well  as 
more  safe,  than  the  use  of  machine  electricity. 

II.  A man,  aged  45,  with  tetanus  supervening 
on  a punctured  wound  of  the  great  toe.  The  syrnp- 


* Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  Jan.  1842. 


SPASM. 


135 


toms  were  severe,  and  opium,  in  large  doses,  gave  no 
relief.  Strychnine  was  administered  with  decided 
benefit,  but  increased  the  spasms  in  the  legs,  so  that 
the  patient  refused  to  continue  it.  Electricity  was 
then  employed,  as  in  the  last  case  ; after  which  he 
was  immediately  able  to  walk  back  to  his  bed.  It 
was  subsequently  applied  whenever  there  was  severe 
spasm,  and  always  with  success;  the  man  gradually 
recovering.  A blister  was  applied  to  the  spine  during 
the  treatment. 

197.  Hydrophobia.  — The  spasms  of  this  disease, 
like  those  of  tetanus,  may  be  well  supposed  to  be 
under  the  control  of  galvanism.  Dr.  Donovan,  of 
Dublin,  relates  a case  in  which  it  was  successfully 
employed.*  In  both  of  these  violent  spasmodic 
diseases,  the  inhalation  of  ether  would  now.  be 
prescribed.  Another  powerful  antispasmodic  agent 
should  not,  on  that  account,  be  overlooked,  espe- 
cially as  the  action  of  galvanism  and  etherization  are 
complementary  to  each  other.  Etherization  acts  by 
overcoming  nervous  excitement,  and  occasionally 
produces  an  unfavorable  prostration.  Galvanism  acts 
by  bringing  the  nervous  system  into  full  and  har- 
monious action,  thus  controlling  irregular  mani- 
festations. Both  agents  may,  therefore,  have  an 
important  place. 

198.  Spasm.  — Dr.  Dewees*  says,  in  the  New 
York  Journal  of  Medicine,  “In  the  most  frightful 
case  of  tonic  spasm  from  utero-spinal  causes,  the 

* Dub.  Jour.  May,  1847. 

f N.  Y.  Jour,  of  Med.  May,  1847. 


136 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


continued  current  has,  in  my  hands,  proved  a perfect 
charm,  as  witnessed  by  our  distinguished  townsmen, 
Drs.  Mott  and  F.  U.  Johnston.  In  this  extraor- 
dinary case,  the  interrupted  current  proved  highly 
injurious,  causing  convulsive  actions,  while  by  the 
simple  galvanic  current  the  spasms  would  be  imme- 
diately broken.  ” 

199. *  Stammering.  — It  is  stated  that  this  affection 
has  been  cured  by  diligently  passing  the  electro- 
magnetic shocks  from  the  tongue  to  the  surface  of 
the  throat,  to  which  a sponge  handle  should  be 
applied  in  various  positions.  Considering  stammer- 
ing, however,  as  a convulsive  affection  of  the  glottis, 
the  current  should  be  directed  particularly  to  that 
organ,  and  galvanism  should  be  preferred  to  electro- 
magnetism. 

200.  Hiccup.  — Two  cases  are  reported  in  the 
London  Lancet,*  from  a French  practitioner,  in 
which  hiccup  was  treated  by  passing  the  galvanic 
current  by  acu-puncture  needles  from  the  back  of  the 
neck  to  the  epigastrium.  The  first  was  a case  of 
two  years7  standing,  in  a young  woman  subject  to 
chronic  gastritis,  who  was  cured  by  a few  applica- 
tions, but  required  a continuance  for  six  weeks  to 
prevent  a relapse.  A case  of  hiccup  after  typhus 
fever  was  cured  in  the  same  way. 

201.  Colic.  — The  spasms  of  this  disease,  and 
the  irregular  or  inverted  peristaltic  motions  of  the 
intestines,  are  subjects  for  experimental  treatment 


Lond.  Lancet.  July,  1843,  from  Jour,  des  Conn.  Med.  Chir. 


FEVERS. 


137 


with  galvanism.  The  current  would  be  passed  from 
the  back  of  the  neck  and  spine  to  the  perineum, 
and  different  parts  of  the  abdomen. 

202.  Fevers.  — The  nervous  system  is  very 
largely  involved  in  the  phenomena  of  fever.  In  this 
condition,  circumstances  often  arise  in  which  the  use 
of  electricity  may  be  of  great  value.  These  have 
been  partially  indicated  under  preceding  heads. 
The  alterative  action  of  electricity,  generally  applied, 
may  prove  useful  in  breaking  up  a sluggish  fever, 
especially  of  a nervous  origin.  In  congestive  and 
typhoid  fevers,  its  use  in  arousing  the  system 
has  already  been  spoken  of.  (<§><§>  150,  152.)  In 
fevers  connected  with  the  bilious  system,  an  im- 
portant application  would  consist  in  arousing  the 
liver  to  a state  of  functional  activity.  ($  216.)  In 
fevers  resulting  from  local  inflammation,  the  revul- 
sive action  of  electricity  (§  64)  may  have  a place. 
In  eruptive  fevers,  it  has  been  proposed  to  use  the 
stimulating  power  of  electricity  over  the  skin,  to 
bring. out  suppressed  eruptions.  Statements  have 
appeared,  though  not  authoritative,  of  the  successful 
use  of  this  form  of  application.  When  it  is  consid- 
ered that  a large  surface  may  be  rapidly  excited  by 
sweeping  the  sponge  conductors  over  it,  moistened 
with  a stimulating  solution,  the  proposition  will  not 
appear  irrational.  In  the  cases  also  of  suppressed 
eruption,  in  exanthematous  fevers,  there  is  usually 
great  nervous  depression,  which  galvanism  may,  at 
the  same  time,  be  employed  efficiently  to  combat.* 

* N.  Y.  Jour,  of  Med.  May,  1847. 

12* 


t3S 


NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 


These  suggestions  are  made  principally  with  a view 
to  draw  attention  to  a class  of  applications  which 
may  well  repay  investigation. 

203.  Intermittent  Fever.  — Mr.  Luke  Howard, 
F.  R.  S.,  reported,  in  1833,*  several  cases  of  inter- 
mittent fever  in  the  care  of  Mr.  P.  Smith,  as  having 
been  cured  by  placing  the  patient  on  the  insulating 
stool,  and  drawing  sparks  from  the  spine  at  the  same 
time  that  they  were  received  at  the  epigastric  region. 
When  this  was  done  in  the  hot  stage,  the  pulse  was 
speedily  reduced,  and  a few  applications  produced  a 
permanent  cure,  even  in  obstinate  cases.  The  state- 
ment is  of  interest,  as  indicating  a probable  applica- 
tion of  electricity  in  effecting  reaction,  and  changing 
the  nervous  condition  in  this  disease. 

204.  M.  Fabre  Palaprat  stated  before  the  French 
Academy,  in  the  same  year,f  that  he  had  cured  a 
case  of  quartan  fever  by  the  electrical  transfer  of 
quinine  through  the  body  of  the  patient.  This  is 
based  on  the  well-known  principle  of  the  transfer 
of  substances  in  solution  by  the  electrical  current. 
Where  a membrane  like  the  skin,  however,  is  inter- 
posed, it  requires  a very  powerful  current  to  effect 
the  passage  of  a substance  through  it.  If  the  surface 
was  blistered,  where  in  contact  with  the  conductors 
from  the  battery,  a current  of  less  power  would 
probably  be  sufficient.  The  rapid  dissemination  of 
medical  agents,  in  this  way,  through  the  system,  is  a 
subject  which  deserves  additional  investigation. 

* Loud.  Med.  Jour.  March,  1833. 

t Revue  Med.  May,  1833. 


LUMBAGO. 


139 


RHEUMATISM  AND  GOUT. 

205.  These  inflammatory  affections  may  be  classed 
together,  in  reference  to  their  electrical  treatment. 
In  rheumatism,  at  least,  electricity  has  proved  exten- 
sively useful.  Dr.  Prosch,  of  Hamburg,*  in  reporting 
fifty-three  cases  of  different  diseases,  chiefly  of  the 
muscular  and  nervous  systems,  treated  by  electro- 
magnetism, of  which  only  twenty-four  were  cured  or 
much  improved,  yet  includes  among  the  latter  ten 
cases  out  of  eleven  in  all,  of  rheumatism  of  the  mus- 
cles and  fascia.  With  the  exception  of  this  compari- 
son, the  table,  as  republished,  and  referred  to  above,  is 
valueless,  as  the  mode  of  treatment  does  not  appear. 

206.  Rheumatism.  — Acute. — According  to  Dr. 
Dunglison,  of  Philadelphia,!  “ Sarlandiere  restricts 
the  use  of  electricity  to  rheumatic  or  neuralgic  pains, 
uncomplicated  with  organic  mischief  or  inflamma- 
tion.’7 This  refers  especially  to  machine  electricity, 
but  is  not  sustained  by  later  authorities.  Rheuma- 
tism, from  its  neuralgic  relations,  appears  to  have  been 
treated  beneficially  by  electricity  in  almost  all  its 
forms,  in  all  periods  of  inflammation  excepting  that 
of  greatest  excitement.  Galvanism,  which  generally 
increases  the  action  of  a part,  should  be  used  with 
caution.  The  electric  sparks  and  electro-magnetic 
shocks  have  been  found  of  great  service ; the  latter,  it 
is  stated,  sometimes  at  once  relieving  the  pain. 

207.  Lumbago.  — Muscular  rheumatism  is  stated, 

* Boston  Med.  and  Snrg.  Jour.  1845. 
f Braithewaite,  Part  V. 


140  RHEUMATISM  AND  GOUT. 

by  M.  Raciborski,  of  Paris,  in  the  Gazette  Medico - 
Cliirurgicale , to  yield  readily  to  galvanism  [elec- 
tro-magnetism]. Lumbago  was  sometimes  so  far 
relieved  by  a few  shocks,  as  to  permit  muscular 
motion  without  pain.  He  says,  “ We  do  not  doubt 
that  the  forced  contraction  which  the  galvanic  shock 
produces  in  the  fibres  of  the  muscles  rendered  mo- 
tionless by  the  rheumatism,  must  contribute  consider- 
ably to  the  good  effects  derivable  from  this  means.” 

208.  Relief  was  frequently  obtained,  in  lumbago, 
at  Guy’s  Hospital,  by  drawing  sparks  from  the  seat 
of  pain. 

209.  Chronic  Rheumatism. — A case  of  rheuma- 
tism, disabling  the  left  knee  and  foot,  in  a coun- 
tryman, aged  60,  is  reported  by  MM.  Bally  and 
Meyraux,  of  the  Hospital  de  la  Pitie,*  which  was 
cured  by  galvano-puncture,  being  one  of  the  earliest 
instances  of  that  treatment.  In  the  case  of  the  knee, 
the  needles  were  plunged  half  an  inch  beneath  the 
surface,  and  at  a distance  of  three  inches  apart.  Six 
applications  effected  a cure,  and  four  additional  ones 
to  the  foot  produced  a similar  result.  The  usual 
resources  had  been  previously  exhausted. 

210.  A case  of  chronic  rheumatism  of  the  shoul- 
der, in  a mason,  aged  23,  is  also  reported  by  the  same 
physicians.  A needle  was  implanted  in  each  shoul- 
der, and  the  current  of  six  pairs  passed  through  them 
by  frequent  contacts.  After  the  seventh  application, 
the  pain  had  ceased,  and  only  slight  stiffness  remained. 


* Revue  Med.  Oct.  1825. 


RHEUMATIC  SWELLINGS. 


141 


A superficial  application,  in  this  case,  proved  inef- 
fectual. 

211.  The  action  of  electricity,  in  chronic  rheuma- 
tism, is  probably  alterative  and  stimulant  in  the  first 
instance.  Any  neuralgic  tendency  is  removed,  and 
the  absorbents  are  excited  to  action.  The  sponge 
handles  may  be  applied  on  opposite  sides  of  the  affect- 
ed part,  and  moved  so  as  to  pass  the  electro-magnetic 
shocks  in  all  directions  through  it.  The  spark  was 
used  with  success  at  Guy’s  Hospital.  Galvanism  is 
reported  to  have  acted  with  efficiency  in  many  cases, 
by  superficial  application  as  well  as  acu-puncture. 
It  is  to  be  regretted  that  the  details  of  treatment  have 
not  been  more  generally  preserved  in  the  almost  uni- 
versal testimony  to  the  value  of  electricity  in  this 
form  of  the  disease. 

212.  Rheumatic.  Swellings. — Dr.  Hoering,  of 
Heilbronn,*  gives  the  case  of  a patient  who  was  affect- 
ed with  rheumatic  swellings  of  the  cellular  tissue, 
especially  of  the  upper  extremities.  One  conductor 
was  placed  in  the  hand  or  in  a foot  bath,  and  the 
other  was  passed  over  the  diseased  surface.  The 
improvement  was  marked  from  the  first  application, 
and  in  fifteen  days  all  the  movements  were  more 
free.  In  the  sixth  week,  all  the  pain  and  swelling 
had  disappeared.  The  case  of  an  ecclesiastic  is  also 
given,  with  very  painful  rheumatic  swellings  of 
almost  all  the  articulations.  After  the  first  applica- 
tion, the  pain  was  so  much  diminished  as  to  allow 


Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  June,  1847. 


142 


RHEUMATISM  AND  GOUT. 


him  to  sleep  for  two  hours,  which  had  not  occurred 
for  months  previously.  In  three  weeks,  the  pain 
had  completely  disappeared,  and  the  movements  had 
become  more  free,  when  the  patient  discontinued  its 
further  use. 

213.  In  all  rheumatic  enlargements,  where  absorp- 
tion is  to  be  promoted,  the  current  of  the  battery 
should  be  used. 

214.  Periodic  Rheumatism. — A case  was  related 
by  M.  Chailly  to  the  Society  of  Medicine  of  Bour- 
deaux,*  and  by  them  ordered  to  be  printed,  in  which 
a courier,  aged  38,  subject  for  five  years  to  periodic 
attacks  of  rheumatism  and  gout,  and  also  to  pleuritic 
affections,  had  been  apparently  cured,  and  his  general 
health  restored,  by  a powerful  shock  from  a flash  of 
lightning,  which  prostrated  the  four  horses  of  the 
carriage  in  which  he  was  travelling.  His  flesh  had 
returned,  and  the  month  of  March,  in  which  he  was 
always  subject  to  ingress  of  disease,  had  passed  with- 
out any  attack  of  gout  or  rheumatism. 

215.  Gout.  — This  disease  is  said  to  have  been 
treated  successfully,  at  its  height,  by  the  galvanic 
moxa,  the  platinum  needle  being  plunged  into  the 
inflamed  part,  and  instantly  becoming  incandescent. 
The  inflammation  is  stated  to  centre  on  the  ulcer 
thus  produced,  which  discharges  freely.  Dr.  Koe- 
nig f states  that  he  has  treated  gout  successfully  by 
galvano-puncture,  inserting  the  needles  as  deep  as 
possible. 


* Revue  Med.  Oct.  1835. 


t Revue  Med.  April,  1830. 


MUCOUS  SECRETION. 


143 


SECRETING  ORGANS. 

216.  Torpid  Liver.  — Where  an  inactive  state  of 
the  liver  exists,  as  a cause  or  effect  of  other  diseases, 
the  power  of  speedily  developing  the  bilious  secretion 
is  possessed  by  galvanism  to  a very  striking  extent. 
Wilson  Philip,  in  a remark  already  quoted,  says,  “I 
have  repeatedly  seen  the  same  effect  upon  the  biliary 
system  which  arises  from  calomel ; a copious  bilious 
discharge  from  the  bowels  coming  on  within  a few 
hours  after  its  employment.”  This  application  is  an 
important  one.  The  current  of  the  battery  should 
be  transmitted  from  the  back  of  the  neck  and  spine 
to  the  region  of  the  liver,  by  means  of  surface 
handles. 

217.  Mucous  Surface.  — The  effect  of  electricity 
upon  the  mucous  secretion  in  the  respiratory  organs 
cannot  be  better  illustrated  than  by  the  following 
remarks  upon  a disease  embarrassing  respiration,  in 
part,  by  its  effects  on  secretion. 

218.  Mucous  Secretion  in  Apoplexy . — Wilson 
Philip*  states  that  the  respiration  in  sanguineous 
apoplexy  is  interrupted  more  by  accumulation  of 
phlegm  than  by  the  lessened  action  of  the  muscles 
of  inspiration,  the  secretion  assuming  its  character 
and  remaining  adherent  on  account  of  the  withdrawal 
of  the  nervous  energy  from  the  lungs  — a conclusion 
amply  established  by  his  experiments  on  the  division 
of  the  eighth  pair  of  nerves.  This  accumulation  is 


* Yital  Functions,  2d  ed.  p.  272. 


144 


SECRETING  ORGANS. 


often  the  cause  of  death.  On  passing  the  battery 
current  through  the  lungs  in  this  condition,  Wilson 
Philip  says,  “ After  the  rattling  breathing  had  come 
on;  and  the  patient  seemed  about  to  be  suffocated,  he 
was,  at  least  a dozen  times,  made  to  breathe  with 
ease,  the  accumulation  of  phlegm  gradually  disap- 
pearing on  the  application  of  galvanism,  by  which 
his  life  was  evidently  prolonged.”  Galvanism  is  not 
here  employed  as  a means  of  cure  in  the  original 
disease,  but  for  the  purpose  of  removing  an  obstruc- 
tion by  which  time  can  be  gained  for  the  use  of 
other  remedies.  It  should  be  employed  with  caution, 
and  not  more  than  ten  minutes  at  once.  Other 
functions  may  be  stimulated  in  a similar  manner. 
The  battery  alone  should  be  used,  and  any  injurious 
effect  upon  the  circulation  may  be  neutralized  by 
blood-letting. 

219.  Secretion  of  Throat  and  Lungs.  — The  elec- 
tro-magnetic current  passed  through  the  throat  from 
side  to  side,  and  from  the  back  of  the  neck  to  the 
sternum,  is  stated  to  relieve  irritation  of  the  throat, 
probably  by  its  alterative  action  on  the  mucous  mem- 
brane. In  deficient  secretion  or  dryness  of  the  throat, 
and  also  of  the  lungs,  the  battery  current  would  be 
preferable,  in  a gentle  and  diffused  form. 

220.  Salivary  Glands.  — These  glands  are  very 
readily  excited  to  increased  action  by  electricity, 
passed  through  them,  or  through  almost  any  part  of 
the  face.  Whether,  in  excessive  salivation,  any  bene- 
fit would  be  derived  from  the  alterative  influence  of 
electro-magnetism,  has  not  been  ascertained. 


DYSPEPSIA. 


145 


221.  Tear  Glands. — In  the  treatment  of  amau- 
rosis by  Magendie,  the  stimulation  of  the  tear  glands 
has  been  alluded  to.  (§  123.)  In  deficient  secretion, 
this  might  prove  a valuable  resource. 

222.  Urinary  Secretion.  — In  both  the  deficient 
and  diseased  secretion,  electricity  would  deserve,  by 
analogy,  to  be  applied  — the  current  being  passed 
through  the  kidneys  from  side  to  side,  and  also  in 
the  course  of  the  spine.  Galvanism  and  electro- 
magnetism would  be  employed  respectively  when 
increased  or  alterative  action  was  required. 

223.  Suppressed  Perspiration.  — The  function 
of  the  skin  is  very  readily  influenced  by  galvanism, 
either  when  applied  by  handles  placed  near  each 
other  on  the  surface,  or  when  it  is  passed  through  a 
whole  limb.  This  will  have  been  observed  under 
preceding  heads.  In  suppressed  perspiration,  and  all 
diseases  in  which  the  skin  is  inactive,  use  may  be 
made  of  this  application.  Electrification  on  the  insu- 
lating stool  is  stated,  by  Wilson  Philip,  to  increase 
the  action  of  the  skin. 

DIGESTIVE  FUNCTION. 

224.  Dyspepsia. — Wilson  Philip  treated  a number 
of  cases  of  dyspepsia  in  connection  with  asthma,*  in 
all  of  which  the  improvement  in  the  digestive  func- 
tion was  marked.  The  action  of  galvanism  on  the 
bilious  secretion,  where  deficient,  has  already  been 
stated.  (<§>  216.)  Experiments  made  on  animals,  by 


* Vital  Functions,  2d  ed.  p.  339. 

1o 
O 


146 


DIGESTIVE  FUNCTION. 


Wilson  Philip,  show  that  the  process  of  digestion  is 
continued  after  the  division  of  the  eighth  pair  of 
nerves,  by  means  of  a supply  of  galvanism.  This 
may  be  attributed  to  the  influence  of  electricity  on 
the  secretions  and  vital  warmth  of  the  stomach. 
The  conclusion,  from  all  observations  on  that  class 
of  diseases  commonly  known  as  dyspepsia,  is,  that 
where  functional,  and  not  organic,  they  are  peculiarly 
under  the  control  of  electricity,  especially  of  galvanism. 
Where  active  inflammation  exists,  galvanism  should 
not,  however,  be  employed.  The  chronic  diseases 
of  digestion,  which  are  so  obstinate  under  medical 
treatment,  should  become  peculiar  subjects  of  inves- 
tigation, with  those  who  wish  to  develop  the  appli- 
cations of  electricity.  All  the  organs  contributing  to 
digestion  may  be  roused  into  action,  and  another  ad- 
vantage may  be  gained  by  the  exercise  or  movement 
of  those  organs  by  means  of  the  electro-magnetic 
shocks.  If  these  are  passed  through  the  abdomen, 
contractions  take  place  in  every  direction,  effecting  a 
thorough  agitation  of  the  organs,  without  any  serious 
discomfort. 

225.  Constipation . — It  has  been  shown  that  the 
peristaltic  action  is  readily  promoted  by  electricity 
in  a majority  of  cases.  (<§>  111.)  Dr.  Dewees  states,* 
“ There  is,  in  most  all  cases  of  chronic  constipation 
(from  enteric  inactivity),  excessive  dryness,  not  only 
of  the  faeces,  but  of  the  mucous  surface  of  the  intes- 
tines. This  state  is  speedily  remedied  by  the  cur- 


* N.  Y.  Jour,  of  Med.  May,  1847. 


B RONC  HITIS. 


147 


rent,  the  secretion  of  the  bowels  being  announced  in 
a few  days.  Where  the  nervous  prostration  is  very 
great,  and  the  person  should  be  of  a relaxed  leuco- 
phlegmatic  habit,  the  got  is  frequently  found  in  an 
opposite  condition,  being  relaxed  and  coated  with  a 
gluey  mucus,  the  presence  of  faecal  matter  not  being 
noticed  by  the  bowel.  After  a few  days’  use  of  the 
battery,  this  becomes  remedied,  in  both  states;  the 
intestine  is  stimulated,  and  a secretion  of  fresh  mucus 
takes  place,  with  increased  propulsory  powers.”  By 
passing  galvanism  through  the  liver  at  the  same  time, 
the  stimulus  of  the  bile  is  also  brought  to  bear  upon 
the  intestine.  The  form  of  application,  in  these 
cases,  is  to  pass  the  current,  by  means  of  surface 
handles,  from  the  back  of  the  neck  or  spinal  column, 
to  the  perineum,  or  to  the  abdomen  over  the  organ  to 
be  excited. 

226.  Sick  Headache , as  a result  of  indigestion,  has 
already  been  spoken  of.  (<§>  170.)  Heartburn , where 
produced  by  a similar  cause,  would  be  treated  prima- 
rily by  action  on  the  stomach  and  spinal  cord,  and  by 
the  passage,  perhaps,  of  a weak  current  through  the 
heart. 

DISEASES  OF  INFLAMMATION. 

227.  Laryngitis.  Bronchitis. — Where  these  in- 
flammations are  chronic,  or  passive,  electricity  has 
been  found  beneficial,  by  its  alterative  influence  on 
the  mucous  membrane,  and  also  by  increasing  secre- 
tion, or  rather  by  adding  to  the  fluidity  of  secretion. 
In  ulceration  of  the  throat,  of  a specific  character, 


148 


DISEASES  OF  INFLAMMATION. 


this  alterative  action  may  also  deserve  a trial.  The 
same  may  be  said  in  regard  to  croup . In  a con- 
gested state  of  the  mucous  membrane,  the  stimu- 
lating influence  of  electro-magnetism  might,  in  some 
cases,  be  employed.  When  the  disease  is  in  the 
throat,  the  current  may  be  passed  through  the  larynx 
in  various  directions,  or  from  the  tongue  to  the 
chest ; when  in  the  lungs,  from  the  back  of  the  neck 
or  tongue  to  the  base  of  the  chest.  It  may  be  useful 
to  make  the  application  to  the  throat  in  such  a way 
as  to  increase  the  action  of  the  skin. 

228.  Pleurisy.  — This  inflammation,  accompa- 
nied with  effusion,  has  been  treated  with  success  by 
electricity,  according  to  various  accounts.  It  may 
be  said  that  the  inflammations  of  the  serous  mem- 
branes generally  seem  to  be  benefited  rather  than 
injured  by  the  influence  of  feeble  electrical  currents. 
The  subject  of  serous  effusion  will  be  treated  of 
hereafter. 

229.  Pneumonia.  — The  testimony  is  universal  as 
to  the  bad  consequences  attending  the  use  of  elec- 
tricity in  this  disease,  at  any  rate,  in  the  active  stages 
of  inflammation.  In  the  latter  periods  of  oppression 
from  a viscid  secretion,  or  from  a passive  congestion 
of  the  lungs,  electricity  might,  with  the  utmost 
caution,  be  resorted  to,  in  default  of  other  means,  to 
relieve  respiration.  The  revulsive  use  of  electric  >ty 
applied  to  other  organs  might  be  serviceable  in 
earlier  stages  of  the  disease. 


PHTHISIS. 


149 


PHTHISIS. 

230.  Phthisis.  Consumption.  — Dr.  Wilson  Philip 
remarks,  “ In  some,  laboring  under  the  most  chronic 
forms  of  phthisis,  in  whom  the  symptoms  had 
lasted  several  years,  and  habitual  asthma  had  su- 
pervened, the  relief  obtained  from  galvanism  was 
very  great,  notwithstanding  some  admixture  of  a 
pus-like  substance,  in  what  was  expectorated.  I 
need  hardly  add,  after  what  has  been  said  [concern- 
ing inflammation],  that,  in  ordinary  cases  of  phthi- 
sis, nothing  could  be  more  improper  than  the  use  of 
galvanism.”  * This  last  has  reference  to  the  battery 
current  exclusively.  In  cases  of  insufficient  secre- 
tion of  the  lungs  connected  with  phthisis,  or  of  a 
secretion  deprived  of  its  fluid  constituents,  or  of  a 
generally  inactive  state,  the  battery  current  may  be 
applied  in  Wilson  Philip’s  way.  In  cases  where 
the  inflammatory  tendency  was  distinctly  marked, 
feeble  electro-magnetic  shocks  might  be  found  useful 
to  give  nervous  tone  to  the  lungs,  without  increasing 
inflammation.  Where  the  mucous  membrane  is  ex- 
tensively diseased,  there  is  a possibility,  which  should 
be  always  kept  in  view,  of  increasing  its  vital  action, 
by  subjecting  it  to  galvanic  or  electro-magnetic  in- 
fluence. Neither  should  the  idea  of  promoting  ab- 
sorption of  tuberculous  matter,  however  improbable, 
be  dismissed  without  a moment’s  consideration. 
Another  application  to  phthisis,  of  which  electricity 


* Yital  Functions,  2d  ed.  p.  340. 

13  * 


150 


DISEASES  OF  TISSUES. 


is  always  capable,  is  its  influence  upon  other  func- 
tions, and  the  general  tone  of  the  system.  It  may 
also  be  used  as  a counter-irritant  to  the  lungs,  by 
bringing  the  skin,  or  other  organs,  into  normal  or 
excessive  action.  In  the  last  stages  of  phthisis, 
when  the  accumulation  of  mucus  is  a cause  of  dis- 
tress and  danger,  the  battery  current  might  be  used, 
as  in  apoplexy  (<§>  218),  to  relieve  the  burdened  respira- 
tion of  the  patient,  by  its  effect  on  secretion. 

DISEASES  OE  TISSUES. 

231.  Atrophy.  — In  the  wasting  of  an  organ  by 
deficient  nutrition,  either  from  the  want  of  nervous 
supply,  or  of  vitality  in  the  tissue,  the  daily  use  of 
galvanism  is  indicated.  The  current  should  be  sent 
in  the  opposite  direction  to  the  organic  nervous 
current.  Where  the  organ  or  part  is  to  any  extent 
muscular,  electro-magnetism  would  also  be  employed 
to  advantage,  and  would  not  be  excluded  in  other 
cases. 

232.  Hypertrophy.  — - Where  an  interstitial  de- 
posit takes  place  in  any  organ  from  a want  of  propor- 
tional activity  in  the  absorbent  system,  electricity,  by 
its  vital  stimulation,  in  many  cases,  effects  absorp- 
tion, and  occasions  a return  to  the  healthy  state. 
This  may  not  cover  a large  proportion  of  cases  of 
enlargement  of  organs.  Still  the  power  of  stimu- 
lating absorption  exists,  and  deserves  a trial  in  all 
such  cases.  In  hypertrophy  of  the  heart,  with  serous 
effusion,  it  may  be  employed  with  caution.  The 
battery  current  would  here  be  most  efficient. 


CUTANEOUS  DISEASES. 


151 


233.  Enlarged  Liver . — This  affection,  follow- 
ing so  many  diseases,  deserves  especial  notice  in 
connection  with  the  power  of  promoting  absorption 
and  vital  action  in  the  tissues.  A moderate  and 
patient  use  of  galvanism  through  the  organ  would  be 
required.  Inflammation  or  over-action  would  contra- 
indicate its  use. 

234.  Hemorrhage.  — Where  this  exists  of  a pas- 
sive character,  from  vascular  inertia,  or  diseased 
condition  of  the  tissues,  electricity  may  be  with 
confidence  employed,  though  with  discretion,  in  case 
of  inflammation.  A moderate,  uninterrupted  gal- 
vanic current  may  be  sent  through  the  organ  ; or,  in 
the  case  of  the  mucous  surface  connected  with  the 
digestive  and  respiratory  apparatus,  it  may  be  sent 
from  the  mouth  to  the  rectum,  or  base  of  the  chest. 
The  power  of  electricity  in  producing  organic  con- 
tractility would  here  be  of  use. 

CUTANEOUS  DISEASES. 

235.  It  has  been  stated  that  electricity  exerts  a 
powerful  influence  over  the  skin,  stimulating  all  its 
functions.  This  action  is,  of  course,  alterative,  and 
inconsistent  with  many  diseased  states.  Under  sur- 
gical applications,  its  use  in  ulcers  and  tumors  will 
be  spoken  of.  It  is  sufficient  to  say  here  that, 
wherever  an  application  to  the  skin  is  proper  in  a 
cutaneous  disease,  the  free  use  of  electricity  with  a 
soft  sponge  handle,  moistened  with  an  appropriate 
solution,  and  swept  over  the  surface,  deserves  a con- 
fident trial.  In  inactive  states  of  the  skin,  this  is 


152 


CUTANEOUS  DISEASES. 


especially  the  case.  In  active  inflammations,  only 
electro-magnetism  would  be  proper.  Otherwise,  the 
battery  would  be  indicated. 

236.  The  bath  is  a very  favorable  mode  of  ap- 
plication in  cutaneous  diseases.  With  a powerful 
battery,  the  electrical  decomposition  of  the  liquid 
employed  would  probably  exert  a decided  influence 
upon  the  diseased  surface.  According  to  the  direc- 
tion of  the  current,  the  electro-positive  or  electro- 
negative element  of  the  chemical  compound  in 
solution  would  be  given  off  in  a nascent  state  in 
contact  with  the  skin.  The  electrical  air-bath  (§13) 
has  been  suggested  by  Dr.  Golding  Bird  as  an  altera- 
tive agent  in  cutaneous  diseases. 

237.  In  cutaneous  diseases,  such  as  Herpes , in 
which  there  is  a neuralgic  complication,  electricity 
deserves  especial  attention.  It  should  then  be  admin- 
istered generally,  as  well  as  locally,  to  give  tone  to 
the  system.  The  proposed  use  of  electricity  in  sup- 
pressed eruptions  has  been  spoken  of  under  eruptive 
fevers. 

238.  Baldness . — In  connection  with  cutaneous 
diseases,  I venture  to  suggest  the  application  of  elec- 
tricity to  the  scalp,  when  the  loss  of  hair  ensues  upon 
deficient  vitality  of  the  skin.  The  diseased  state 
of  the  surface,  including  the  roots  of  the  hair,  pro- 
ducing ultimate  baldness,  may  probably  be  removed 
by  an  occasional  stimulating  application  of  gal- 


vanism. 


AMEN  0RR1  (EA. 


153 


UTERINE  SYSTEM. 

239.  Amenorrhoea.  — No  function  has  been  more 
readily  excited  by  electricity  than  that  of  menstrua- 
tion. Dr.  Golding  Bird,  in  his  lectures  delivered  in 
1847, # says,  “ In  electricity  we  possess  the  only 
really  direct  emmenagogue  which  the  experience 
of  our  profession  has  furnished  us  with.  I do  not 
think  I have  ever  known  it  fail  to  excite  menstrua- 
tion where  the  uterus  was  capable  of  performing  this 
function.”  He  says  again, f “ The  rule  for  insuring 
success,  in  the  great  mass  of  cases  of  amenorrhoea,  is 
sufficiently  simple:  Improve  the  general  health  by 
exercise  and  tonics;  remove  the  accumulations  often 
present  in  the  bowels  by  appropriate  purgatives ; and 
then  a few  electrical  shocks,  often  a single  one,  will 
be  sufficient  to  produce  menstruation,  and  at  once  to 
restore  the  previous  deficient  function.”  With  but 
one  or  two  exceptions,  every  case  in  Guy’s  Hospital, 
in  which  the  general  health  was  not  too  much 
involved,  as  by  chlorosis,  proved  successful  with  this 
treatment.  In  cases  of  chlorosis,  the  treatment  was 
directed  first  to  the  removal  of  that  disease.  A dozen 
shocks  of  the  Leyden  jar  were  usually  passed  through 
the  pelvis  from  the  sacrum  to  the  pubes.  After  the 
establishment  of  the  discharge,  Dr.  Bird  generally 
discontinued  the  application  till  about  a week  before 
the  next  period.  If  the  catamenia  were  not  estab- 
lished in  four  or  five  weeks,  he  discontinued  electri- 

* Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  June,  1847. 

t Guy’s  Hospital  Reports.  April,  1841. 


154 


UTE  RINE  SYSTEM. 


cal  treatment,  and  renewed  it,  after  searching  for 
and  removing  the  cause  of  general  derangement.  A 
table  of  twenty-four  cases  is  given  by  Dr.  Bird,  in 
which  there  was  no  relief  in  four,  who  were  subjects 
of  well-marked  chlorosis,  but  cure  in  the  remaining 
twenty.  The  following  is  an  abstract  of  the  detailed 
cases. 

I.  A girl,  aged  16.  No  return  of  menstruation 
from  the  first,  period,  nine  months  previous,  owing  to 
x cold.  Twelve  shocks  were  passed  through  the 
pelvis.  The  next  morning,  the  catamenia  appeared, 
and  lasted  four  days. 

II.  A woman,  aged  21,  with  amenorrhoea  for  three 
years.  Health  improved,  and  a slight  appearance  of 
the  discharge  three  days  previous.  Twelve  shocks 
•passed  through  the  uterus.  Catamenia  shortly  ap- 
peared, and  continued  two  days. 

III.  A girl,  aged  17.  Appearance  chlorotic.  Amen- 
orrhoea for  one  year,  except  a slight  appearance 
three  months  since.  Shocks  daily  through  the 
pelvis,  and  tonic  treatment.  On  the  third  day,  men- 
struation commenced,  and  continued  four  days. 

IY.  A girl,  aged  18.  Suffering  from  amenorrhoea 
for  a year,  and  irregularity  for  four  years.  A slight 
appearance  five  weeks  since,  attended  with  pleuro- 
dynia. Jan.  3,  1840,  shocks  thrice  a week,  and 
aloetic  prescription.  Jan.  13,  catamenia  appeared, 
and  lasted  two  days.  Electricity  intermitted  for  a 
fortnight,  and  recommenced  Feb.  4.  Feb.  14,  men- 
struation occurred  freely. 

Y.  A young  woman,  aged  19,  with  suppression 


D Y S M E N O Ii  II  II  CE  A . 


155 


for  two  months.  Aloetic  purgatives.  Jan.  31,  shocks 
through  pelvis  thrice  a week.  Feb.  10,  free  men- 
struation. Electricity  suspended  for  a fortnight,  and 
renewed.  Menstruation  returned  copiously  at  the 
proper  period. 

240.  Other  and  still  more  striking  cases  will  be 
found  under  the  head  of  Chorea,  from  the  Reports  of 
Guy’s  Hospital.  Machine  electricity  was  here  almost 
exclusively  used.  Electro-magnetism  and  the  battery 
have  been  found  elsewhere  equally  efficient. 

241.  Dr.  Collins,  in  the  London  Lancet,  relates  the 
case  * of  a woman,  aged  35,  in  whom  suppression 
had  taken  place,  from  cold,  six  months  previously. 
After  trying  the  usual  remedies  without  success,  he 
applied  one  pole  of  the  electric  apparatus  to  the  lum- 
bar region,  and  the  other  to  the  pubes,  changing  the 
direction  of  the  current  from  time  to  time.  After 
continuing  it  for  five  to  ten  minutes  each  day  for  five 
days,  the  menses  were  reestablished. 

242.  In  amenorrhoea,  an  admirable  mode  of  appli- 
cation is  the  hip  bath,  in  which  one  of  the  poles  of 
the  electro-magnetic  or  galvanic  apparatus  is  immersed 
near  the  organs  to  be  specially  operated  upon.  The 
other  handle  may  be  applied  in  the  course  of  the. 
spine,  or  in  the  bath  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  body. 
In  all  diseases  of  menstruation,  it  is  stated  that  the 
passage  of  a current  from  the  spine  to  the  mamma 
aids  the  development  of  the  function. 

243.  Dysmenorrekea.  — Dr.  R.  McDonnel,  in  the 


* Lancet.  Jan.  25,  1845. 


156 


UTERINE  SYSTEM. 


Dublin  Medical  Press,*  speaks  of  the  efficiency  of 
electricity  in  this  form  of  menstrual  derangement. 
The  mode  of  application  of  electro-magnetism  recom- 
mended by  him,  is  to  pass  the  current  from  the  sa- 
crum to  the  pubes  by  surface  handles,  or  in  some  cases 
to  substitute  a vaginal  conductor  for  the  anterior  one 
of  these.  The  effect  of  electricity  is,  in  this  case, 
to  restore  the  function  to  its  normal  condition  and 
activity. 

244.  Menorrhagia.  — This  disease,  where  requir- 
ing tonic  treatment,  may  be  properly  subjected  to 
galvanism.  The  alterative  action  of  electricity  may 
also  be  employed. 

245.  Leucorrhcea. — This  morbid  secretion  has 
been  reported  frequently  to  have  been  relieved  by 
galvanism.  The  change  of  action  produced  by  elec- 
tricity in  the  uterine  system,  and  its  influence  on  the 
mucous  membrane,  may  readily  prove  useful  in  leu- 
corrhoea. 

246.  Chlorosis.  — The  remarks  made  by  Dr.  Bird 
(§  239)  are  the  most  authoritative  which  have  been 
published  on  this  disease.  Cases,  however,  are  re- 
ported, in  which  galvanism  or  electro-magnetism  has 
been  of  essential  service  in  restoring  the  general  tone 
of  the  system,  and  of  the  uterine  organs.  The  cur- 
rent may  be  directed  to  the  organs  of  digestion,  and 
also  to  the  breasts. 

247.  Displacement  of  Uterus.  — The  use  of 
electricity  has  been  suggested  in  uterine  displace- 


* Dub.  Med.  Press.  Aug.  1846. 


UTERINE  CONTRACTION. 


157 


ments,  on  the  principle  of  giving  tone  to  the  muscu- 
lar fibres  connected,  directly  or  indirectly,  with  the 
support  of  the  uterus,  and  especially  of  increasing  the 
organic  contractility  of  the  ligaments. 

248.  Uterine  Contraction.  — One  of  the  most 
obvious  effects  of  electricity  is  muscular  contraction. 
The  idea  of  stimulating  the  contraction  of  the  uterus 
by  this  means,  was  therefore  an  obvious  one,  and  was 
suggested  by  Dr.  Ramsbotham  in  1834,*  and  was,  at 
a later  period,  introduced  into  practice  by  Dr.  Thomas 
Radford.  It  may  be  observed,  that  in  those  cases  of 
labor  to  which  electricity  is  applicable,  there  is  gen- 
erally an  abundance  of  time  to  procure  the  simple  and 
manageable  apparatus  which  is  required. 

249.  Dr.  Radford, t speaking  of  the  first  case  in 
which  he  applied  electricity,  (a  case  of  hemorrhage, 
with  extreme  exhaustion  before  delivery,  the  os  uteri 
remaining  rigid,)  says,  “ By  this  case,  I ascertained 
that  galvanism  produces  an  effective  and  powerful 
contraction  of  the  uterus,  and  not  only  so  as  regards 
its  tonic  contraction,  but  it  has  also  the  power  of 
energetically  exciting  alternate  contraction  when 
applied  at  intervals.”  “ The  alternate  contraction 
excited  by  this  agent  is  analogous  to,  and  as  powerful 
as,  that  which  is  observed  in  normal  labor,  and  the 
tonic  contraction  is  greater.”  He  therefore  urges 
this  application  in  all  those  cases  where  artificial 
delivery  would  be  prescribed  by  the  common  practice 
on  account  of  hemorrhage.  He  also  says,  “ I think 

* Braithewaite,  Part  XI. 

f Proy.  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.  Dec.  1844.  — Braithewaite,  Part  XI 

14 


158 


UTERINE  SYSTEM. 


it  probable  that  it  may  produce  one  of  the  other  nat- 
ural means  of  suppressing  hemorrhage  which  I have 
already  referred  to;  viz.,  coagulation  of  the  blood.” 
In  treating  of  placental  presentation,  after  describing 
a mode  of  detaching  the  placenta,  he  advises  the  use 
of  galvanism  to  complete  delivery.  He  says,  u I am 
convinced  that  the  influence  of  galvanism  has  no  evil 
influence  on  the  life  of  the  child  in  utero,  and  after 
its  birth  that  it  is  an  important  means  of  its  resuscita- 
tion in  cases  of  asphyxia.”  In  another  connection, 
he  observes,  “In  hour-glass  contraction,  and  other 
forms  of  irregular  uterine  action  after  labor,  I antici- 
pate great  benefit  from  its  use.”  He  remarks  upon 
its  use  in  tedious  labor,  and  suggests  also  its  applica- 
tion to  the  production  of  premature  labor. 

250.  The  electro-magnetic  apparatus  was  employed 
by  Dr.  Radford,  and  the  current  or  shocks  were  sent 
from  the  parietes  of  the  abdomen  to  the  os  uteri  in 
different  directions.  The  handle,  applied  internally, 
was  a curved  metallic  rod,  covered  with  some  insulat- 
ing substance,  and  having  at  its  end  a silver  ball  for 
contact  with  the  uterus.  One  of  the  wires  of  the 
apparatus  was  connected  with  the  other  extremity. 
The  sponge  might  be  substituted  for  the  silver  ball 
Otherwise  the  ball  should  be  covered  with  moistened 
leather.  The  following  cases  have  been  published 
by  Dr.  Radford.* 

I.  A woman,  in  the  eighth  month  of  pregnancy, 
who,  as  a consequence  of  fright,  was  seized  with 


* Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  1846. 


LABOR. 


159 


thills  and  hemorrhage.  Labor  pains  were  absent,  but 
movements  of  the  foetus  continued.  The  os  uteri 
was  rigid.  Four  hours  later,  the  hemorrhage  increas- 
ing, Dr.  R.  ruptured  the  membranes.  The  uterus 
remained  inactive,  and  galvanism  was  then  applied. 
Expulsatory  efforts  and  tonic  contraction  immediately 
commenced.  The  application  was  continued,  at  in- 
tervals, for  half  an  hour,  by  the  vagina,  and  then  the 
current  was  passed  through  the  uterus  in  various 
directions,  from  the  surface.  The  hemorrhage  dimin- 
ished, and  soon  ceased.  The  child  was  born  alive, 
in  about  six  hours ; the  placenta  was  expelled,  and 
the  uterus  contracted  firmly. 

II.  A woman,  in  labor  with  her  fourth  child,  after 
the  dilatation  of  the  os  uteri  and  rupture  of  the  mem- 
branes, lay  without  pains,  and  with  constant  hem- 
orrhage, for  more  than  six  hours.*  Dr.  R.  then 
employed  galvanism,  with  the  surface  conductors, 
applying  them  to  opposite  points  of  the  abdomen,  in 
different  directions.  The  atonic  state  of  the  uterus 
was  gradually  exchanged  for  one  of  firm  contraction, 
succeeded  by  powerful  expulsatory  efforts.  The 
child  was  born  alive  in  one  hour  from  the  first  appli- 
cation. The  placenta  was  expelled  five  minutes 
later;  the  uterus  contracted  firmly,  and  no  post-par- 
tum  flooding  or  after-pains  occurred,  although  they 
had  taken  place  in  all  former  labors. 

251.  The  following  cases  were  communicated  b) 
Dr.  Dorrington  to  the  Manchester  Medical  Society. f 

* Prov.  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.  1847.  — Braithe  waite,  Part  XVI. 

t Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  June,  1846. 


160 


UTERINE  SYSTEM. 


I.  A woman,  several  hours  in  labor,  the  membranes 
having  ruptured,  and  much  hemorrhage  having  oc- 
curred. The  os  uteri  was  hardly  dilatable,  and  the 
uterus  passive.  Ergot  was  given,  and  in  twenty 
minutes  contractions  commenced,  and  external  hem- 
orrhage ceased.  Dr.  Radford  arrived,  at  this  time, 
and,  indications  of  internal  hemorrhage  still  existing, 
he  applied  electro-magnetism,  for  twenty  minutes, 
with  intermissions,  with  the  effect  of  increasing  the 
pains  and  establishing  tonic  contraction.  The  uterus 
ceased  to  act  before  delivery,  which  was  accom- 
plished instrumentally.  The  woman  sunk,  and  died 
of  exhaustion  three  days  afterward.  This  case  was 
reported  chiefly  on  account  of  the  distinction  between 
the  pains  produced  by  ergot  and  those  by  electro- 
magnetism. The  latter  are  represented  to,  have  been 
more  immediate,  stronger,  and  connected  by  periods 
of  tonic  contraction  of  the  uterus. 

II.  A case,  in  which  slight  hemorrhage  had  taken 
place  before  the  time  of  labor,  and  a long  walk  at  the 
full  time  had  brought  on  a sudden  flow,  accompanied 
with  syncope  and  vomiting.  These  symptoms  con- 
tinuing, and  internal  hemorrhage  being  apprehended, 
the  membranes  were  ruptured.  The  uterus  remained 
inactive,  and  the  os  uteri  was  undilatable.  Galvan- 
ism was  then  applied.  The  effect  upon  the  uterine 
fibres  was  most  decided.  A very  energetic  tonic  con- 
traction, which  was  persistent,  immediately  took  place. 
The  uterus  was  felt,  as  a hard  tumor,  through  the 
walls  of  the  abdomen,  and  the  head  of  the  child  was 
immediately  in  contact  with  the  os  uteri.  The  gen- 


LABOR. 


161 


eral  effect  was  no  less  advantageous.  The  woman 
rallied,  and  the  pulse  rose  to  ninety-eight,  and  was 
stronger.  Labor  commenced  nineteen  hours  after  the 
application  of  electricity,  lasting  two  hours  and  a half. 
The  child  was  born  alive.  No  hemorrhage  occurred, 
in  the  interval  or  subsequently,  and  the  woman  recov- 
ered well. 

III.  A woman,  aged  31,  in  the  eighth  month  of  her 
fifth  pregnancy,  had  been  subject,  for  a fortnight,  to 
slight  flooding.  It  was  ascertained  that  the  placenta 
presented,  and,  slight  pains  occurring,  the  membranes 
were  ruptured,  and  electricity  applied  for  twenty-five 
minutes.  Strong  contraction  set  in  at  once,  and  the 
hemorrhage  became  very  slight.  Two  hours  and 
forty  minutes  later,  the  contractions  having  di- 
minished, electricity  was  reapplied,  action  became 
stronger,  and  in  two  hours  the  labor  was  completed, 
the  placenta  having  been  partially  detached  at  an 
early  period,  and  the  child  being  stillborn. 

IV.  A case  of  uterine  inertia  with  the  second  child 
in  the  delivery  of  twins.  The  pains  were  feeble,  and 
twenty  minutes  to  half  an  hour  apart.  On  applying 
electricity,  strong  labor  pains  came  on.  On  suspend- 
ing it,  tonic  contraction  took  place.  In  an  hour  and 
a half,  after  occasional  applications  of  electricity,  in- 
tervallic  contraction  was  excited,  and  a small  female 
child  was  subsequently  born  alive,  with  foot  presen- 
tation. The  placenta  came  away  well,  and  the 
mother  recovered  rapidly.  The  child,  which  was 
puny,  died  in  three  or  four  days. 

V.  A case  of  premature  delivery,  by  means  of  elec- 

14* 


162 


UTERINE  SYSTEM. 


tricity.  From  narrowness  of  the  pelvis,  a first  deliv- 
ery had  necessarily  been  performed  by  the  crotchet, 
and  it  was  therefore  resolved  to  bring  about  a second 
delivery  at  the  eighth  month.  Electro-magnetism 
was  employed,  at  intervals,  for  twenty  minutes,  the 
uterus  becoming  tense,  and  true  pains  occurring ; but 
these  ceased  with  the  application.  Eight  and  a half 
hours  afterwards,  the  membranes  ruptured,  and  about 
fifty  hours  later,  labor  commenced,  and  in  nine  hours 
the  child  was  born,  by  uterine  effort  alone.  A hem- 
orrhage occurred  twelve  days  later,  from  which  the 
woman  recovered.  In  this  case,  the  rupture  of  the 
membranes  was  ascribed  to  the  tonic  state  induced  in 
the  uterus.  Dr.  Dorrington  remarks,  in  connection 
with  the  above  cases,  “ I believe  there  is  no  other 
means  by  which  we  excite  uterine  contraction,  which 
is  not  liable  to  fail,  when  severe  hemorrhage  has 
weakened  the  vital  powers.’’ 

252.  W.  F.  Cleveland,  Esq.*  gives  the  case  of  a 
woman,  in  her  sixteenth  confinement,  who  had  suf- 
fered, in  previous  labors,  from  inertia  of  the  uterus. 
Health  delicate.  Pains  commenced  on  Sunday,  and 
continued  till  Wednesday,  when  the  liquor  amnii 
was  discharged.  On  Friday,  the  pains  returned 
twice,  and  ergot  had  been  given,  with  very  slight 
effect.  The  alternative  was  instrumental  delivery 
with  an  exhausted  patient,  or  the  use  of  electricity. 
With  the  employment  of  the  latter,  regular  strong 
pains  came  on,  and  in  a quarter  of  an  hour  a living 


* Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  June,  1845. 


LABOR. 


163 


male  child  was  born.  The  uterus  contracted  at  once 
firmly  and  permanently,  with  an  unusually  slight 
amount  of  hemorrhage. 

253.  Dr.  Frank,  of  Wolfenbiittel,*  reports  the  fol- 
lowing case,  at  the  full  time,  of  a primipara,  aged  40. 
Contractions  were  very  inefficient,  the  woman  much 
agitated,  pulse  small  and  quick,  body  covered  with 
sweat,  vagina  without  secretion,  os  uteri  undilated, 
pain  in  the  region  of  the  stomach,  and  vomiting. 
Considering  the  symptoms  nervous,  he  passed  a feeble 
electro-magnetic  current  through  the  pelvis,  in  differ- 
ent directions,  for  about  five  minutes.  Energetic  and 
normal  contractions  of  the  uterus  immediately  took 
place,  the  vomiting  was  stayed,  and  the  morbid  sensa- 
tions disappeared.  The  delivery  was  afterwards  con- 
ducted according  to  the  ordinary  rules.  In  a second 
case  of  a primipara,  aged  20,  after  nearly  two  days  spent 
in  labor,  the  head  being  engaged  in  the  superior  strait, 
the  strength  of  the  patient  began  to  fail.  There  was 
a small,  quick  pulse,  cold  skin,  vomiting,  and  general 
discouragement.  M.  Frank  applied  a feeble  current, 
as  before,  chiefly  through  the  anterior  part  of  the  ute- 
rus, from  without,  for  about  three  minutes.  A strong 
and  sustained  contraction  ensued,  which  was  repeated 
in  six  or  seven  minutes.  The  woman  rallied,  and  in 
an  hour  and  three  quarters  the  child  was  born.  In 
another  case,  reported  by  M.  Frank,  after  two  days’ 
labor,  the  use  of  electro-magnetism,  for  six  minutes, 
determined  strong  and  repeated  contractions.  The 


Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  Dec.  1847. 


164 


UTERINE  SYSTEM. 


forceps  were  finally  employed,  to  complete  labor. 
The  woman  died  subsequently,  of  accidental  hemor- 
rhage. In  a fourth  case,  of  hemorrhage  following  an 
abortion,  in  the  fifth  month,  consequent  on  a fall,  the 
woman,  when  seen  by  M.  Frank,  was  in  a very  alarm- 
ing anhaemic  condition.  After  unsuccessful  attempts 
to  administer  an  internal  stimulant,  he  passed  the 
electric  current  from  the  lumbar  region  through  to 
the  abdomen,  above  the  fundus  uteri.  Some  minutes 
after,  the  uterus  contracted,  and  the  hemorrhage 
ceased.  In  ten  minutes,  another  contraction  took 
place,  and  the  patient  was  restored  to  consciousness. 

*254.  In  opposition  to  the  preceding  statements, 
and  to  a mass  of  other  testimony,  Prof.  J.  Y.  Simp- 
son has  reported  a negative  result  obtained  by  him  in 
eight  cases.*  In  one  of  these,  the  pains  were  more 
frequent  and  shorter,  in  five  they  remained  the  same, 
in  one  they  ceased  during  the  application,  and  in  one 
they  ceased  during  and  for  twenty-four  hours  after 
the  application.  These  experiments  were  made  with 
a powerful  electro-magnetic  apparatus,  one  conductor 
being  applied  to  the  os  uteri,  and  the  other  to  the 
abdomen  over  the  fundus. 

255.  Dr.  Golding  Birdf  is  not  willing,  for  a moment, 
to  admit  the  validity  of  Prof.  Simpson’s  objections,  in 
opposition  to  the  experience  of  Dr.  Radford,  Dr.  Lever, 
and  others.  He  accounts  for  the  failure  of  Prof. 
Simpson,  by  his  use  of  a magneto-electric  machine, 

* Month.  Jour.  Med.  Sc.  July,  1846  ; and  Am.  Jour,  of  Med. 
Sc.  1846. 

f Lectures.  — Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  June,  1847. 


EXHAUSTION  IN  LABOR. 


165 


improperly  constructed,  so  as  to  produce  currents 
alternately  in  opposite  directions.  In  this  case,  how- 
ever, contractions  to  a certain  extent  should  still 
have  been  observed  in  the  uterus. 

256.  In  speaking  of  the  experiments  of  Dr.  Simp- 
son, Dr.  West,*  in  his  report  on  midwifery,  says, 
u These  observations  seem  to  have  been  made  with 
great  care,  but  can  hardly,  as  yet,  be  allowed  to 
outweigh  the  results  made  by  Reil  and  Cams  in 
their  experiments  upon  animals,  and  the  recent 
evidence  in  favor  of  the  reality  of  the  influence  of 
galvanism,  afforded  by  some  of  the  cases  which  Dr. 
Radford  has  recorded. *’  Dr.  Simpson  ascribes  all 
effect  to  imagination,  coincidence,  or  mechanical  irri- 
tation of  the  os  uteri  and  abdomen.  That  the  effect 
of  electricity,  which  induces  such  powerful  contrac- 
tion in  all  muscular  tissue,  should  be  null  in  the  case 
of  the  uterus,  at  a time  when  contraction  has  become 
its  special  function,  is  hardly  conceivable. 

257.  Exhaustion  in  Labor.  — Dr.  Henry  Wilson, 
of  Runcorn,!  details  a case  of  uterine  hemorrhage 
which  had  proceeded  to  the  last  stage  of  exhaustion, 
stimulants,  and  cold  applications  having  been  used 
for  many  hours.  The  pulse  was  hardly  perceptible, 
the  eyes  open  and  fixed,  the  patient’s  condition  that 
of  insensibility  bordering  on  syncope.  Electro-mag- 
netism, as  a last  resort,  was  then  tried.  No  sensi- 
bility appeared  for  ten  minutes,  when  the  patient 


* Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  April,  1847. 

f Prov.  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.  April,  1846  — Braitlie waite, 
Part  XIII. 


166 


SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 


rallied  to  a considerable  extent,  and  the  shocks  were 
intermitted.  This  case  is  given  to  illustrate  the 
reactive  power  of  electricity  in  exhaustion  from 
flooding.  The  vaginal  conductor  was  an  insulated 
wire  bearing  at  its  extremity  a moistened  sponge. 

258.  Abortion.  — Dr.  Dewees,  in  the  New  York 
Journal  of  Medicine,*  states  that  he  has  used  the 
continued  galvanic  current  with  success  in  two 
cases  where  abortion  was  threatened,  apparently  from 
irregular  nervous  supply  to  the  uterus.  Such  cases 
would  require  very  careful  discrimination.  In  the 
previous  cases,  the  electro-magnetic  shocks  were 
employed  for  the  purpose  of  producing  muscular  con- 
traction. In  this  case,  the  uninterrupted  galvanic 
current  was  employed  for  the  purpose  of  harmonizing 
irregular  nervous  action.  In  cases  of  over-action 
of  the  uterus,  the  application  would  be  manifestly 
improper. 

SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 

259.  Aneurism.  — Electro-puncture  has  been  ap- 
plied successfully  to  the  coagulation  of  the  blood  in  the 
vessels.  A large  number  of  cases  of  aneurism,  treated 
by  this  means,  are  on  record,  which,  in  so  grave  a dis- 
ease, deserve  especial  consideration.  It  may  be  also 
kept  in  view  that  an  important  influence  may  be  exert- 
ed by  galvanism  upon  the  coats  of  the  diseased  ves- 
sels, by  inducing  a more  vital  and  healthy  condition, 
or  by  aiding  organic  contractility,  which  would  be  of 


* N.  Y.  Jour,  of  Med.  May,  1847. 


ANEURISM. 


167 


value  in  the  subsequent  processes  of  the  cure.  The 
absorbent  power  is  also  stimulated  by  the  battery. 

260.  The  Annali  Universali  di  Medicina*  con- 
tains a report  of  a commission  of  the  Scientific 
Congress  at  Genoa,  made  through  M.  Asson.  The 
experiments  were  performed  mostly  upon  animals. 
The  commission  arrived  at  the  following  results:  It 
is  possible,  by  means  of  electro-puncture,  to  produce 
in  the  vessels  a persistent  coagulum  of  blood,  com- 
posed of  fibrous  granulations  adherent  to  the  walls 
of  the  vessel,  and  sufficient  entirely  to  stop  the 
circulation.  This  clot  is  formed  independently  of 
diseased  alterations  in  the  arterial  walls.  The  gran- 
ulations forming  the  clot  commence  the  moment  the 
battery  is  applied.  The  clot  is  sufficiently  developed 
in  ten,  twenty,  or  thirty  minutes,  to  close  the  vessel. 
A clot  can  be  formed  equally  well  in  the  veins  as 
in  the  arteries,  but  is  less  consistent  and  higher 
colored.  The  clot  formed  in  an  artery  between  two 
ligatures,  without  electricity,  is  less  consistent  and 
higher  colored  than  that  formed  by  electro-puncture. 
The  character  of  a clot  between  two  ligatures  is  not 
altered  by  the  cooperation  of  electro-puncture,  which 
shows  that  the  power  of  electricity  to  produce  coagu- 
lation is  dependent  upon  the  blood  while  included 
in  the  living  circulation.  Blood  drawn  from  the 
vessels,  and  subjected  to  electricity,  does  not  coagu- 
late. The  formation  of  the  clot  depends  chiefly 
upon  the  position  of  the  needles  with  regard  to  the 


Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  April,  1847. 


168 


SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 


vessels  and  blood  contained  in  them.  A persistent  clot 
can  be  obtained  by  proper  management,  with  a con- 
stant current,  without  cauterizing  the  arterial  tissue, 
or  producing  grave  derangements.  The  hemorrhage, 
on  withdrawing  the  needles,  is  generally  from  the 
negative  pole,  and  easily  arrested  by  cold  water. 

261.  The  vital  character  of  the  coagulum,  formed 
by  galvanism,  has  been  denied  elsewhere,*  but  ap- 
parently without  sufficient  reason.  M.  Petrequin, 
surgeon-in-chief  of  the  Hotel  Dieu,  of  Lyons,  — to 
whom  the  priority  of  this  application  is  generally 
accorded,  though  a claim  has  also  been  made  by  Mr. 
B.  Phillips,  of  London,  — performed  his  first  experi- 
ments upon  human  blood  immediately  after  its  ex- 
traction. Blood,  therefore,  seems  to  be  susceptible 
of  coagulation  while  its  vitality  lasts,  although  with- 
drawn from  the  vessels. 

262.  In  the  session  of  the  French  Academy  of 
Oct.  27,  1845,f  M.  Petrequin  communicated  the  first 
case  of  aneurism  treated  by  this  method.  This  was 
a traumatic  aneurism  of  the  temporal  artery  of  the 
size  of  an  almond,  of  a soft  consistence,  and  slightly 
sensible  on  pressure.  Two  fine  needles  of  steel 
(gold  or  platinum  should  always  be  employed)  were 
plunged  about  four  fifths  of  an  inch  into  the  tumor, 
so  as  to  cross  at  right  angles.  A battery,  gradually 
increased  to  fifteen  pairs,  was  connected  with  these 
for  ten  or  twelve  minutes.  Considerable  pain  was 
experienced,  the  pulsations  gradually  diminishing  to 

* Ranking’s  Abstract,  No.  5. 

f Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  Nov.  1845. — Comptes  Rendus. 


ANEURISM. 


169 


the  close  of  the  operation,  when  they  had  entirely 
ceased.  In  ten  days,  the  tumor  was  in  process  of 
absorption.  In  La  Clinique , of  Montpellier,*  Petre- 
quin  refers- to  two  other  cases  — one  of  aneurism  of 
the  ophthalmic  artery,  in  which  the  operation  was 
unsuccessful,  and  in  which  the  ligature  had  also 
been  tried  ineffectually,  and  the  other  of  aneurism 
of  the  right  brachial  artery,  in  which  the  tumor 
became  more  compact  during  the  first  application, 
but  the  patient  refused  further  sittings. 

263.  In  the  Journal  de  Medicine  de  Lyon , of 
April,  1846, f Petrequin  refers  to  the  danger  and 
frequent  ineflicacy  of  the  old  operation,  and  con- 
trasts acu-puncture,  as  leaving  the  patient  at  any 
rate  no  worse  than  before.  To  avoid  the  destruction 
of  the  flesh  immediately  around  the  needle,  he  sug- 
gests that  the  needle  be  varnished  with  shellac,  that 
is,  insulated  except  near  the  end.  This,  in  the 
hands  of  others,  has  not  generally  proved  successful. 
It  is  necessary  that  the  needle  should  terminate  in 
the  fluid  blood,  and  not  in  the  walls  of  the  sac. 
In  large  aneurisms,  he  recommends  using  several 
needles,  so  as  to  send  the  current,  and  form  fibres 
of  coagulum  in  various  directions.  In  these  cases, 
the  current  should  be  continued  longer,  and,  if 
necessary,  the  application  repeated.  Petrequin  refers 
especially  to  deep-seated  aneurisms,  beyond  the  reach 
of  the  knife,  even  where  no  compression  of  the  artery 
could  be  made,  as  subjects  for  his  process.  In  the 

* Revue  Medicate.  Jan.  1846. 

f Encyclog  des  Sc.  Med.  1846. 

15 


170 


SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 


Revue  Medicale , of  November,  1846,  he  affirms,  in 
view  of  his  own  experience  and  that  of  others,  that  the 
curability  of  aneurism  by  galvanism  is  fully  demon- 
strated. The  editor  of  the  Revue  Medicale  expresses 
confident  hopes  of  such  a result,  and  the  editor  of  the 
Bulletin  de  Therapeutique  accepts  the  practice.* 
264.  Dr.  L.  Ciniselli,  in  the  Gazzetta  di  Milano , 
in  the  early  part  of  1846, f reports  the  following  case : 
A man,  aged  70,  entered  the  hospital  at  Cremona,  in 
January,  1846,  with  a popliteal  aneurism  of  the  right 
leg.  It  had  commenced  in  October,  and  was  the  size  of 
a large  goose’s  egg,  pulsating  strongly.  Varices  were 
present  in  both  the  lower  extremities,  and  the  skin 
dry.  The  ligature  was  decided  against,-  and  it  was 
resolved  to  try  the  process  of  M.  Petrequin.  Four 
very  fine  needles  were  passed  into  the  tumor,  with 
care  to  avoid  the  trunks  and  branches  of  the  two 
saphenas.  A ligature  was  placed  over  the  crural 
artery,  enough  only  to  impede  its  pulsations.  A 
battery  of  twenty-one  small  pairs,  subsequently  in- 
creased to  thirty,  was  made  to  communicate  with 
the  needles,  two  of  them  at  a time,  in  different  di- 
rections. The  discharge  was  moderated  by  passing  it 
through  a conductor  of  cotton  cloth,  moistened  with 
a saturated  solution  of  salt.  Every  contact  occa- 
sioned some  muscular  contractions.  The  patient 
interfered  in  the  operation,  relaxing  the  ligature,  and 
brought  the  application  to  an  end  in  twenty-five 
minutes.  The  needles,  from  the  improper  use  of 


* Ranking’s  Abstract,  No.  5. 
t Revue  Med.  March,  1846. 


ANEURISM. 


171 


steel  instead  of  platinum,  were  oxydized,  and  removed 
with  difficulty.  The  patient,  at  the  close,  insisted 
on  the  removal  of  the  ligature.  A bladder,  with  ice, 
was  applied  for  six  hours,  at  the  end  of  which  time 
the  tumor  pulsated  as  before.  Twenty-four  hours 
later,  however,  pulsation  had  ceased.  The  work  of 
coagulation,  commenced  by  electricity,  had  continued. 
In  the  following  days,  the  tumor  diminished  gradu- 
ally in  size,  and  became  more  dense  ; the  other  symp- 
toms disappeared,  and  in  one  week  from  the  operation 
he  walked'  freely,  and  would  not  be  retained  longer 
at  the  hospital,  well  contented  with  his  unexpected 
cure.  Six  weeks  later,  the  tumor  remained  about  the 
size  of  a hen’s  egg,  becoming  more  and  more  dense, 
and  occasioning  comparatively  little  inconvenience. 

265.  In  the  Dublin  Quarterly  Journal  of  the  same 
year,  a remarkable  case  is  reported,  by  Dr.  J.  Hamil- 
ton, surgeon  of  Richmond  Hospital,  who  performed 
the  galvanic  operation  in  presence  of  Drs.  Hutton, 
MacDonnel,  MacDowell,  and  Stapleton.  The  patient 
was  a soldier,  aged  42,  with  constitution  much  im- 
paired by  the  effects  of  tropical  climate,  alcoholic  ex- 
cesses, and  the  venereal  virus.  Obstinate  vomiting 
was  one  of  the  most  severe  symptoms.  At  length, 
aneurism  of  the  carotid  was  recognized,  which  had 
increased  to  the  size  of  a hen’s  egg,  when  it  was  de- 
termined to  try  the  galvanic  process.  Compression 
below  the  tumor  produced  pain  and  vomiting.  The 
pulsations  were  very  strong.  Gold  needles,  protected 
with  shellac,  except  at  the  point,  were  introduced 
into  the  tumor.  The  current  of  twelve  pairs  gradu- 


172 


SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 


ally  excited,  was  allowed  to  pass  for  twenty-five 
minutes,  at  the  end  of  which  coagulation  was  com- 
plete, and  pulsation  had  ceased.  In  the  mean  while, 
however,  an  alarming  increase  of  size  had  taken 
place,  the  tumor  enlarging  to  three  or  four  times  its 
original  bulk,  and  creating  the  sensation  of  suffoca- 
tion. Also  the  flesh  around  the  positive  needle  was 
destroyed,  so  that  a few  drops  of  blood  escaped,  on 
withdrawing  it.  The  patient  also  showed  alarming 
prostration.  Reaction  having  taken  place,  pulsation 
was  renewed  in  the  tumor.  A repetition  of  the  oper- 
ation was  deemed  impossible,  and  in  three  weeks  the 
patient  died,  the  vomitings  continuing  throughout. 
The  tumor,  on  examination,  proved  the  size  of  a large 
orange,  and  solid,  the  outer  part  showing  fibres,  with 
the  appearance  of  organization.  As  far  as  the  coagu- 
lation of  the  tumor  is  concerned,  Dr.  Hamilton  con- 
siders the  operation  successful ; and  that,  in  more 
favorable  cases,  it  might  prove  an  important  resource. 
It  may  be  remarked,  that  from  the  destructive  effects 
upon  the  skin,  the  quantity  of  the  battery  employed 
was  probably  too  great,  and  this  may  have  occasioned 
an  over-action  of  the  parts  connected  with  the  aneu- 
rism. 

266.  M.  Restelli,  in  the  X Hazzetta  Medica  di  Mila- 
no* gives  the  case  of  a man,  aged  41,  having  an 
aneurism,  the  size  of  a nut,  in  the  bend  of  the  elbow. 
The  needles  were  inserted,  as  usual,  and  connected 
with  a number  of  small  pairs.  The  current  passed 


Encyclog*.  des  Sc.  Med.  Sept.  1847. 


VARICOSE  VEINS. 


173 


for  twenty  minutes,  when  the  needles  were  with- 
drawn, the  positive  with  difficulty,  as  it  was  steel. 
The  tumor  was  without  pulsation,  as  also  the  radial 
and  cubital  arteries.  The  following  day,  the  tumor 
had  diminished,  and  was  harder.;  the  limb  cold,  with  a 
prickling  sensation.  Stimulating  frictions  were  used. 
On  the  second  day,  the  eschars  produced  by  the 
needles  fell  out,  the  sores  cicatrizing  readily.  A 
month  after,  only  a small,  hard  tumor  remained  — the 
circulation  being  restored  in  the  radial  and  cubital 
arteries,  and  the  arm  as  useful  as  before.  M.  Restelli 
had  not  found,  as  yet,  a varnish  sufficiently  adherent 
to  the  needle,  and  polished,  to  insulate  it,  except  at 
the  point.  He  is  theoretically  opposed  to  changing 
the  direction  of  the  current  during  the  process  for 
coagulation. 

267.  Yarices.  — The  treatment  by  electrical  coag- 
ulation was  suggested  by  Petrequin,  for  varicose  tu- 
mors, as  well  as  aneurisms.  The  following  reports 
from  the  practice  of  the  Italian  physicians,  will  suffi- 
ciently illustrate  the  progress  already  made  in  this 
application. 

268.  Dr.  M.  Gamberini  gives  two  cases,  in  the 
Bulletino  delle  Scienze  Mediche*  of  the  successful 
obliteration  of  varicose  veins.  A young  man,  aged 
24,  with  good  constitution,  was  the  subject  of  the 
first  experiment,  at  the  Hospital  of  St.  Ursula,  in  No- 
vember, 1846.  The  principal  trunks  of  the  left  leg 
were  affected.  One  of  these  was  slightly  compressed, 


* Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  June,  1847. 

15* 


174  SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 

and  four  needles  inserted  in  it,  and  connected  succes- 
sively with  the  conductors  of  a battery  of  twenty-four 
small  pairs.  The  pain  was  at  first  severe  ; and  on 
making  a particular  contact,  after  fifteen  minutes,  a 
spasm  ensued,  which  compelled  the  suspension  of  the 
operation.  The  negative  pole  was  much  oxydized, 
from  the  improper  use  of  steel,  and  with  difficulty 
withdrawn.  An  areola  also  surrounded  it,  and  the 
tissues  in  contact  were  destroyed.  The  vein  was 
hard,  evidently  filled  with  coagulum.  A few  hours 
after,  slight  fever  ensued,  which  was  readily  dissi- 
pated. Six  days  later,  another  vein  was  attacked  in 
the  same  way,  without  any  subsequent  reaction. 
The  operation  was  subsequently  resorted  to  twice 
again,  and  each  time  with  entire  success.  The  sec- 
ond case  was  a man,  aged  36,  with  varices  on  the  left 
leg.  The  largest  of  these  was  successfully  obliterated 
by  the  use  of  two  needles  and  only  nine  pairs  of  the 
battery. 

269.  M.  Bertani,  in  the  Gazzetta  Medica  di  Mila - 
7io*  relates  the  case  of  a peasant,  aged  36,  who  had 
many  and  extensive  varices  in  the  veins  of  the  lower 
extremities,  especially  those  of  the  left  leg.  Bandages 
were  applied  above  and  below  the  point  of  opera- 
tion. A pair  of  platinum  needles  were  made  to  pass 
through  the  same  two  varicose  veins,  and  another 
pair  of  platinum  needles  were  introduced  into  two 
other  veins,  the  points  of  the  needles  always  left  free 
in  the  second  vein.  Another  needle  was  afterwards 


* Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  Aug.  1847. 


INFLAMMATION. 


1 75 


inserted  between  the  two  latter,  in  the  saphena.  The 
passage  of  the  current  between  the  different  needles 
continued  thirty  minutes.  An  erysipelatous  ring, 
about  an  inch  in  diameter,  formed  around  the  needles. 
Bandages  and  ice  were  applied,  and  the  patient  slept 
well.  The  next  day,  the  veins  proved  to  be  hard  in 
the  intervals  between  the  needles,  but,  the  second  day 
after,  the  clots  seemed  less  compact,  and  the  patient 
refused  to  submit  to  another  operation,  and  on  the 
third  day  left  the  hospital  with  the  result  incomplete. 

270.  M.  Milani  gives  the  case  of  a man,  aged  50, 
at  the  Hospital  of  Varese,  afflicted  with  most  exten- 
sive varices,  the  internal  saphena  offering  a succession 
of  knots.  Electro-puncture  was  applied  to  one  of 
these.  In  ten  minutes  it  diminished  in  size,  and  did 
not  swell  when  the  vein  was  compressed  above  it. 
Its  contents  were  hard  to  the  fingers.  On  the  day 
following,  the  trunk  of  the  saphena  was  attacked  in 
the  same  way,  with  twenty-six  pairs.  In  the  third 
application,  clots  were  obtained,  for  two  or  three 
inches,  in  the  saphena,  in  quarter  of  an  hour.  In  the 
fourth,  clots  were  formed  in  a tumor  above,  in  four 
minutes.  In  ten  operations,  the  whole  of  the  varices 
had  disappeared.  The  needles,  though  varnished, 
cauterized  the  skin,  and  formed  an  areola  around 
them,  especially  the  negative  one. 

271.  M.  Milani  refers  to  another  case,  where  a var- 
icose swelling,  the  size  of  a goose’s  egg,  was  already 
filled  with  clots,  by  two  applications  of  galvano- 
puncture. 

272.  Inflammation.  — The  effect  of  electricity  up- 


176 


SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 


on  inflamed  tissues  has  already  been  spoken  of.  (§62.) 
The  following  distinction  in  practice  may  be  readily 
arrived  at.  In  simple  inflammation,  where  there  is 
excess  of  local  excitement,  the  application  of  elec- 
tricity is  contra-indicated.  In  passive  inflammations, 
where  there  is  a deficiency  of  vital  action  in  the  af- 
fected part,  electricity,  on  the  other  hand,  is  strongly 
indicated.  This  includes  the  advanced  stages  of 
most  inflammations,  when  local  reaction  or  exhaustion 
has  taken  place.  Where  there  is  infiltration  or  inter- 
stitial effusion,  resolution  may  be  promoted  by  the 
increase  of  vital  power.  Congestion,  of  a passive 
character,  may  be  relieved  by  the  same  means,  the 
reduction  of  the  engorged  part  being  effected.  The 
power  of  electricity,  over  diseased  tissues  at  the  sur- 
face of  the  body,  may  already  be  considered  as  one 
of  its  most  important  influences,  though  so  imperfectly 
developed.  In  all  specific  inflammations,  the  vital 
stimulation  of  the  battery,  or  the  alterative  influence 
of  electro-magnetism,  constitute  an  application  which 
deserves  a far  more  general  attention  than  it  has  yet 
received. 

273.  Erysipelas.  — A correspondent  of  the  Bos- 
ton Medical  and  Surgical  Journal # reports  a case  of 
oedematous  erysipelas,  extending  from  the  groin  to 
the  foot,  accompanied  with  enormous  distention. 
Other  treatment  having  proved  ineffectual,  a feeble 
galvanic  current  was  passed  through  the  limb,  gradu- 
ally increasing  in  strength.  Daily  improvement  re- 


Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jonr.  Oct.  1846. 


ULCERS. 


177 


suited  until  the  limb  was  reduced  to  one  half  the 
former  size.  Galvanism  was  then  suspended,  and 
tincture  of  iodine  used,  with  every  prospect  of  per- 
manent cure.  Erysipelas  is  one  of  those  diseases 
in  which  peculiar  benefit  would  be  anticipated  from 
galvanism,  as  the  vital  condition  of  the  tissues  is  to 
so  great  an  extent  involved.  The  current  of  the 
battery  is  especially  indicated,  and  the  direct  appli- 
cation to  the  diseased  surface  by  the  sponge  will  be 
obviously  resorted  to, 

274.  Gangrene.  — The  remarks  just  made  apply 
equally  to  gangrene.  The  application,  in  this  in- 
stance of  the  battery,  may  be  made  by  a sponge,  or 
by  means  of  a stimulating  bath. 

275.  Ulcers.  — Much  discrimination  may  be  used 
in  the  application  of  electricity  to  ulcers  and  sores, 
both  as  to  the  form  and  mode  of  application.  Free 
electricity  may  be  drawn  from  the  diseased  part, 
while  the  patient  is  seated  on  the  insulating  stool,  by 
means  of  a pointed  rod  connected  with  the  rubber 
of  the  machine,  and  directed  from  a little  distance  to 
all  parts  of  the  surface.  The  battery  may  be  em- 
ployed with  a greater  or  less  number  of  pairs.  The 
local  bath  or  sponge  handle  may  be  used  as  conduc- 
tors, or  the  moist  dressing  of  the  ulcer  may  be  made 
the  medium  of  communication.  A.  gentle  applica- 
tion of  electro-magnetism  will  also  sometimes  be 
indicated.  In  indolent  or  inveterate  wounds  and 
ulcers,  the  effect  of  the  battery  is  sometimes  very 
rapid  and  complete.  The  influence  of  the  different 
poles  upon  the  surface  deserves  careful  attention. 


178 


SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 


It  has  been  the  general  opinion  that  the  negative 
pole  tends  to  produce  cicatrization,*  and  with  that 
view  it  would  be  applied  to  the  diseased  surface. 
Where  there  is  an  open  sore,  especially  of  a specific, 
character,  it  is  a caution,  which,  in  the  present  state 
of  knowledge,  at  least,  should  be  regarded,  not  to 
pass  the  electric  current  through  a greater  extent  of 
the  sytem  than  is  necessary,  while  the  diseased  part 
makes  one  of  the  poles.  It  is  a possibility,  in  this 
case,  that  the  virus,  or  the  disease  itself,  may  be 
transferred  to  other  parts.  One  of  the  conductors 
may  be  applied  to  the  ulcer,  and  the  other  may  be 
conveniently  swept  round  it,  or  the  current  may  be 
passed  through  the  ulcer,  from  side  to  side,  in  all 
directions.  The  decomposition  of  a specific  virus  in 
an  ulcer  is  one  of  the  agencies  which  has  been 
suggested  in  connection  with  the  application  of  the 
battery.  In  fistulous  sores,  a sponge  handle  adapted 
to  the  opening,  or  the  moist  dressing,  may  be  con- 
veniently used  for  conduction.  Dr.  Shuster,  in  a 
communication  to  the  French  Academy  on  the  use 
of  electro-puncture,!  claims  its  application  to  indura- 
tions of  the  cellular  tissue  in  the  neighborhood 
of  certain  ulcers,  and  in  the  walls  of  fistulous 
passages. 

276.  Cancerous  Affections. — Dr.  Shuster,  in 
immediate  connection  with  the  use  of  electro-punc- 
ture suggested  above,  observes,  “ There  would  be 
nothing  irrational  in  attacking  cancerous  affections  in 


* Lajicet.  Nov.  1834. 


f Revue  Med.  Jan.  1843. 


SCROFULOUS  ULCERS. 


179 


the  same  way.”  In  the  acknowledged  inefficacy  of 
medical  treatment,  the  action  of  the  battery,  in  the 
whole  class  of  malignant  tumors  and  ulcers,  should 
be  made  the  subject  of  thorough  investigation.  Dr. 
Crusell  is  stated  to  have  employed  galvanism  bene- 
ficially in  the  Naval  Hospital  of  Cronstadt  * for  ulcer- 
ating cancers,  using  fluid  conductors,  (a  local  bath.) 
He  is  represented  to  have  obtained  permission  to 
establish  a hospital  at  St.  Petersburg  for  the  treat- 
ment of  external  diseases  by  galvanism. 

277.  Syphilitic  Ulcers. — Dr.  Crusell  is  also 
stated  to  have  applied  galvanism  with  success  to 
syphilitic  sores.  Fluid  conductors  were  apparently 
used  in  contact  with  the  ulcer,  the  negative  pole 
being  connected  with  the  diseased  part,  so  that  the 
current  should  leave  the  system  by  the  diseased 
surface.  In  forty-three  cases,  the  results  are  repre- 
sented as  having  been  favorable. 

278.  Scrofulous  Ulcers. — A case  is  reported 
in  the  Lancet, f from  the  Calcutta  Medical  Society, 
in  which  Dr.  R.  Tytler  applied  the  negative  wire 
of  a galvanic  series  to  the  surface  of  a scrofulous  sore 
in  front  of  the  trachea  of  a native,  which  had  existed 
several  years,  and  defied  all  remedial  treatment. 
Two  applications  were  made,  and  the  man  was  dis- 
charged cured  in  seventeen  days.  The  dispersion  of 
scrofulous  tumors  of  the  neck  before,  as  well  as  after 
ulceration,  has  been  frequently  reported  as  a result 
of  galvanic  application. 


* Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  1846. 


f Lancet.  May,  1837. 


180  SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 

279.  Hip  Complaint.  — The  following  cases  of 
scrofulous  disease  of  the  hip-joint  are  reported  by  M. 
Hoering,  of  Heilbronn.# 

I.  A daughter  of  the  mayor  of  Boekingen,  aged 
8 years,  was  affected  with  hip  complaint,  and  elonga- 
tion of  the  right  limb  to  the  extent  of  two  inches. 
After  thirty  applications  of  electricity  through  the 
hip,  the  pain,  before  very  severe,  had  entirely  ceased, 
and  the  child  was  able  to  stand  upon  the  leg,  which 
did  not  exceed  the  other  in  length  more  than  three 
lines. 

II.  A child,  of  9 years,  from  the  same  city,  had 
been  a subject  of  hip  complaint  from  her  third  year, 
accompanied  with  caries,  fistulous  openings,  and 
shortening  of  the  left  limb  to  the  extent  of  four 
inches.  After  fifty-three  applications,  the  limb  had 
increased  in  length,  the  fistulas  had  closed,  and  the 
child  was  able  to  walk  with  freedom. 

280.  White  Swelling.  — Dr.  Hoering  relates  the 
case  of  a woman,  aged  25,  who,  when  four  years  old, 
was  attacked  with  this  disease  in  consequence  of  a 
fall,  and  kept  her  bed  for  several  years.  She  recov- 
ered so  as  to  walk  and  labor,  but  the  knee  remained 
stiff.  In  consequence  of  another  fall,  three  years 
previous  to  the  consultation  of  Dr.  H.,  the  knee  had 
enlarged ; and,  in  spite  of  all  treatment,  the  disease 
had  increased  to  such  an  extent  that  amputation  had 
been  proposed.  The  patient  was  in  an  alarming 
state,  sleepless  for  several  weeks,  great  pain  in  the 


Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  June,  1847. 


TUMORS. 


181 


knee,  no  appetite,  pulse  frequent  and  small.  The 
conductors  of  the  magneto-electric  machine  were 
applied  by  means  of  moist  cloths,  enveloping  the 
knee,  for  a quarter  of  an  hour.  The  nervous  excite- 
ment was  so  far  relieved  that  the  patient  was  then 
able  to  sleep.  By  the  fifteenth  day,  the  limb  could 
be  moved  without  severe  pain,  and  it  was  ascertained 
that  there  was  no  anchylosis.  The  power  of  the 
apparatus  was  increased,  and  the  conductors  applied 
to  places  where  the  skin  had  been  cauterized.  The 
tumor  yielded  gradually,  and  the  patient  went  out  in 
the  fifteenth  week.  Applications  were  continued 
twice  a week  till  the  twenty-fourth  week,  making 
one  hundred  and  twenty  in  all.  The. patient  was 
able  to  walk  without  a cane,  the  knee  being  flexible, 
of  normal  color  and  temperature,  and  not  larger  than 
before  the  last  fall. 

281.  Dr.  Koenig*  states  that  he  has  used  deep 
electro-puncture  with  advantage  in  white  swelling. 

282.  Tumors. — Petrequin,  writing  in  connection 
with  aneurism,  states  that  vascular  and  erectile  tu- 
mors, and  also  sanguineous  tumors,  which  offer  great 
difficulties  to  extirpation  by  the  knife,  are  proper 
subject  for  galvano-puncture.  In  these  cases,  coagu- 
lation may  be  effected,  and  absorption  stimulated. 
The  absorption  of  scrofulous  tumors  has  already  been 
referred  to.  The  general  remark  may  be  made,  that 
wherever  tumors  or  enlargements  of  any  kind  consti- 
tute the  original  disease,  or  are  subjects  of  direct  treat- 


* 

16 


Revue  Med.  April,  1830. 


182 


SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 


merit,  galvanism  may  be  resorted  to,  with  the  hcpe 
of  increasing  the  vital  action  of  the  part,  and  especial- 
ly of  the  absorbent  system.  The  current  should  be 
passed  through  the  tumor,  from  the  surface,  or  by 
electro-puncture  needles. 

283.  Goitre.  — A case  of  goitre,  much  relieved  by 
galvanism,  has  been  reported  (<§>  176,  I.)  in  a patient 
under  treatment  for  asthma,  by  M.  Pascalis.  This  is 
an  instance  of  a class  of  cases  in  which  much  may 
be  expected  from  electrical  treatment. 

284.  Sarcocele.  — M.  Fabre  Palaprat,  at  the  sit- 
ting of  the  French  Academy  of  the  6th  of  May,  1833,* 
communicated  a case  of  sarcocele  successfully  treated 
by  the  mode  of  galvanic  transfer  ($  204)  of  a chemi- 
cal agent.  The  negative  pole  was  placed  in  contact 
with  a compress  moistened  with  a solution  of  iodide 
of  potassium,  the  compress  resting  upon  one  side  of 
the  tumor.  The  positive  pole  was  placed  upon  a 
compress  on  the  other  side  of  the  tumor,  moistened 
with  solution  of  starch.  The  battery  current  soon 
caused  the  appearance  of  the  purple  iodide  of  starch 
under  the  positive  pole.  The  sarcocele  had  been 
cured,  inferentially,  by  absorption,  occasioned  by  the 
joint  influence  of  the  electrical  current  and  of  the 
iodine. 

285.  Dropsical  Effusions.  — In  Hufeland’s  Jour- 
nal, the  following  case  is  given  by  Dr.  Koenig  :f  A 
man,  aged  56,  as  a consequence  of  lumbago,  by  which 
the  body  was  bent  forward,  was  affected  with  dyspep- 


* Revue  Med.  May,  1833. 


f Revue  Med.  April,  1830. 


DROPSY  OF  ARTICULATIONS. 


183 


sia,  and  finally,  after  exposure  to  cold,  with  haemop- 
tysis and  oedematous  swelling  of  the  legs.  The  spit- 
ting of  blood  was  relieved,  but  the  dropsical  affection 
extended  to  the  abdominal  cavity.  The  urine  was 
scanty,  throat  dry,  pulse  frequent,  bowels  costive. 
Purgatives  and  diuretics  had  no  good  effect.  The 
anasarca  finally  spread  to  the  face  and  hands,  and  the 
abdomen  was  enormously  distended.  Two  needles 
were  then  inserted  from  one  eighth  to  one  sixth  of  an 
inch  into  the  walls  of  the  abdomen,  on  either  side  of 
the  linea  alba,  and  their  number  was  subsequently 
increased.  These  were  touched,  three  times  a day, 
with  the  wires  from  a battery  of  sixty  pairs,  twenty 
or  thirty  contacts  being  made.  The  secretion  of 
urine  immediately  increased,  the  skin  became  moist, 
and  the  appetite  returned.  No  internal  remedy  but 
infusion  of  juniper  berries  was  used.  In  four  weeks, 
the  oedema  and  ascites  had  greatly  diminished,  and  a 
few  weeks  later  the  patient  had  perfectly  recovered. 
Another  patient  was  found,  by  Dr.  Koenig,  with 
symptoms  of  hepatitis  and  ascites.  The  inflammatory 
tendencies  being  subdued,  the  swelling  of  the  ab- 
domen seemed  still  on  the  increase.  Galvanism, 
employed  as  above,  restored  the  healthy  functions, 
especially  perspiration  and  the  urinary  secretion,  and 
in  about  three  weeks  effected  a cure. 

286.  Dropsy  of  Articulations.  — Dr.  Koenig  has 
used  galvanism  successfully  in  articular  dropsies,  in 
the  same  way  as  above.  He  recommends  that  the 
needles  be  introduced  as  deep  as  the  bone  of  the 
affected  articulation. 


184  SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 

287.  Effusion  from  serous  membranes,  according 
to  very  general  testimony,  is  peculiarly  subject  to 
galvanic  influence.  Electricity  is  only  contra-indi- 
cated by  a state  of  active  inflammation.  Dr.  Shus- 
ter* speaks  of  the  successful  use  of  electro-puncture 
in  hydrocele,  ascites,  (idiopathic  or  symptomatic  of 
curable  lesions,)  hydrothorax,  articular  dropsies,  drop- 
sy of  the  pericardium,  and  even  chronic  hydroceph- 
alus. 

288.  Hydrocele.  — The  electrical  treatment  of 
hydrocele  is  said  to  have  originated  with  Dr.  Pecchi- 
oli,j-  who  was  attached  to  the  Hospital  of  Sienna. 
His  first  case  was  a young  man  who  had  had  a double 
hydrocele  for  three  years.  Four  needles  were  intro- 
duced into  the  scrotum,  and  the  current  from  a small 
battery  passed  between  them.  This  was  continued 
five  minutes,  acute  pain  in  the  right  testicle  being 
felt.  In  five  hours,  the  sacs  were  almost  empty  ; 
but  towards  evening,  there  was  increased  action  and 
reeffusion.  After  some  days,  the  experiment  was  re- 
peated, with  the  same  result;  but  after  a third  opera- 
tion, the  fluid  was  permanently  absorbed.  Dr.  Leroy, 
at  the  Hotel  Dieu,  repeated  the  experiment  on  a man 
of  70,  with  a single  hydrocele.  He  caused  a small 
battery  of  sixteen  pairs  to  act  upon  the  tumor,  by 
means  of  two  needles,  one  placed  in  the  subcutaneous 
cellular  tissue  of  the  scrotum,  the  other  penetrating 
the  cavity  of  the  tunica  vaginalis.  Two  days  after 
the  operation,  the  tumor  had  entirely  disappeared.  A 


* Rev.  Med.  Jan.  1843.  — Braithe waite,  Part  X. 
t N.  Y.  Jour,  of  Med.  Jan.  1843. 


OPAQUE  CORNEA. 


185 


slight  return  rendered  a repetition  necessary,  twice 
afterwards,  for  twenty  and  for  ten  minutes.  It  may 
be  assumed,  that  the  application,  in  the  first  of  these 
cases,  was  so  violent  as  to  provoke  reaction.  Dr. 
Stewart  records  another  successful  case,  in  the  same 
connection.  He  recommends  the  patient  to  keep  a 
recumbent  position  for  several  days.  The  needles 
should  be  fine,  and  about  four  inches  long. 

289.  Opaque  Cornea. — Dr.  C.  Usiglio,  of  Corfu,* 
reports  the  case  of  a female,  aged  35,  having  opaque 
spots,  increasing  in  size,  upon  the  cornea  of  the  right 
eye,  the  result  of  a long  ophthalmia.  Ordinary  treat- 
ment proving  ineffectual,  electricity  was  resorted  to. 
Six  galvanic  pairs,  increased  to  sixty,  were  employed. 
The  negative  pole  was  placed  upon  the  tongue,  the 
positive  upon  the  closed  eyelid.  When  the  plates 
were  numerous,  the  current  was  intermitted  from  time 
to  time.  The  conjunctiva  soon  became  injected,  the 
vessels  filled  with  red  blood,  and  the  secretion  of 
tears  increased.  The  improvement  commenced  with 
the  first  sitting,  and  in  a month  the  cure  was  perfect, 
excepting  a slight  irregularity  in  the  contour  of  the 
pupil,  which  diminished  daily.  A similar  result  was 
obtained  in  two  other  cases.  In  Albugo , or  deep- 
seated  opacity  of  cornea,  no  effect  was  produced  by 
similar  application  for  a year,  in  the  case  of  a woman ; 
but  in  another  case — that  of  a man  — an  advanta- 
geous result  was  obtained. 

290.  The  writer  has  been  informed  of  a case  of 


* Revue  Med.  March,  1844. 

16* 


136 


SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 


superficial  opacity  of  the  cornea,  successfully  treated 
by  drawing  free  electricity  from  the  surface  of  the 
eye.  This  may  be  conveniently  done,  by  placing 
the  patient  on  the  insulating  stool,  and  approaching  s 
pointed  rod  very  near  to  the  opaque  spots. 

291.  Cataract. — Dr.  Crusell,  of  Finland,  and  Dr. 
Lerche,  of  St.  Petersburg,*  made  early  experiment* 
upon  the  electrical  treatment  of  opacity  of  the  cornea, 
by  bringing  the  positive  wire  of  a single  galvanic  pair 
in  contact  with  the  surface  of  the  eye,  and  the  nega 
tive  pole  in  contact  with  the  tongue.  Encouraged 
by  success  in  this  application,  they  proceeded,  in  the 
case  of  an  elderly  patient,  to  pass  a fine  cataract  nee- 
dle into  a firm  capsulo-lentieular  cataract,  and  connect 
it  with  the  positive  pole  of  the  same  battery,  the  neg- 
ative conductor  being  introduced  into  the  ear.  They 
represent  a sort  of  dispersion  of  the  cataract  to  have 
taken  place,  and  a partial  vision  to  have  been  obtained. 
Seven  cases  are  subsequently  reported,!  in  which  ab- 
sorption of  the  cataract  sometimes  took  place,  to  some 
extent,  as  a consequence  of  inflammation ; but  in 
others,  the  result  was  decidedly  injurious. 

292.  Dr.  C.  Usiglio  J performed  acu-puncture  three 
times  for  cataract.  A fine  needle,  of  gold,  was  con- 
nected with  the  positive  pole,  and  passed  into  the 
crystalline  lens.  The  negative  pole  was  applied  to 
the  tongue,  and  only  two  pairs  of  plates  used.  In  the 

* Med.  Zeitung.  June,  1841.  — Am.  Jour,  of  Med.  Science. 
January,  1842. 

f Am.  Jour,  of  Med.  Science.  April,  1842. 

I Revue  Med.  March,  1844. 


SWELLED  ARTICULATIONS. 


187 


first  case,  that  of  a woman  aged  78,  a capsulo-len- 
ticular  cataract  existed  in  both  eyes,  complicated  with 
slight  disease  of  the  conjunctiva,  and  lachrymal  fistula 
for  twenty-five  years.  The  experiment  was  made  on 
the  right  eye.  This  was  consequently  attacked  with 
inflammation,  which  was  subdued.  Three  months 
later,  no  further  application  having  been  made,  the 
eye  had  shrunk  in  volume,  the  sclerotica  was  wrin- 
kled, the  cornea  flattened  and  opaque.  Complete 
blindness  remained.  In  the  second  case,  that  of  a 
man,  aged  50,  similar  results  were  produced.  In  the 
third,  a man,  aged  50,  had  lenticular  cataract  of  the 
right  eye,  and  partially  obscured  crystalline  of  the  left, 
the  pupil  nearly  immovable,  but  sight  still  remaining. 
The  application  was  made  to  the  right  eye,  and  anti- 
phlogistic treatment  employed.  On  the  second  day, 
some  absorption  of  the  humor  contained  in  the  ante- 
rior chamber  took  place.  After  ten  days,  the  eye 
was  restored  nearly  to  the  normal  state,  the  sight 
being  better  than  that  of  the  other  side. 

293.  From  these  experiments,  the  gravity  of  the 
operation  will  be  inferred.  The  most  important 
result  at  which  Dr.  Usiglio  seems  to  have  arrived,  is 
the  readiness  with  which  absorption  may  be  pro- 
moted in  various  conditions  of  the  eye  by  the  stimu- 
lus of  electricity. 

294.  Swelled  Articulations.  — M.  Raciborski, 
of  Paris,  states,  in  the  Gazette  Medico- Cliirurgicale, 
“ Certain  it  is,  that  in  many  cases  we  have  applied 
galvanism,  [electro-magnetism,]  with  some  success, 
even  to  painful  swellings  of  the  knees,  rendering 


188 


SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 


walking,  if  not  impossible,  at  least  very  painful. 
Certainly  galvanism  did  not  cause  the  swelling  to 
disappear,  but  the  pain  became  dissipated,  or  so 
diminished  as  to  allow  the  patient  to  walk  about.5’ 

295.  Sprains. — M.  Raciborski  says,  in  continua- 
tion of  the  above,  “ We  cannot  terminate  this  paper 
without  signalizing  the  admirable  effects  which  gal- 
vanism produces  in  the  treatment  of  sprains .”  In 
simple  sprains,  he  states  that  it  is  the  pain  felt  on  the 
slightest  motion  of  the  part  which  retards  the  cure, 
the  other  symptoms  being  usually  promptly  dissi- 
pated. He  adds,  “ Now,  just  as  we  have  seen  in 
lumbago,  so  in  sprain,  galvanism  relieves  this  pain 
instantly,  and  allows  the  patient  to  walk  without 
lameness.”  He  suggests  that  galvanism  may  also 
act  by  restoring  the  contractility  and  tension  of  cap- 
sular fibres  and  tendons. 

296.  An  important  part  of  the  treatment  of  sprains, 
by  this  method,  is  the  exercise  by  means  of  electro- 
magnetism. The  sponge  handles  may  be  passed 
around  the  articulation  and  over  the  muscles  con- 
nected with  it,  causing  them  separately  to  undergo 
contraction.  A stimulating  solution  may  be  em- 
ployed. This  application  may  also  be  made  to 
advantage  by  the  touch  of  the  operator,  the  hand 
being  used  as  a conductor. 

297.  False  Articulation  and  Callus. — M.  Hel- 
ler, of  Stuttgard,*  reports  the  case  of  a man  aged 
22,  of  a scrofulous  temperament,  who  entered  his 


Eucyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  Aug.  1846. 


SPONTANEOUS  LUXATION. 


189 


orthopedic  establishment  in  June,  1844,  for  false 
articulation,  accompanied  with  callous  overgrowth, 
from  an  oblique  fracture  of  the  thigh  of  eight 
months’  standing.  Contraction  had  taken  place,  and 
the  bones  met  at  a sharp  angle.  Gradual  extension 
was  used  to  bring  the  bones  into  a true  position,  and 
electro-magnetism  was  then  employed  every  other 
day  to  effect  absorption  of  the  callus.  One  con- 
ductor was  placed  upon  the  tumor,  the  other,  either 
held  in  the  hand  or  applied  to  the  foot.  After  the 
twelfth  application,  absorption  was  complete,  and  the 
parts  had  commenced  to  consolidate.  In  the  mean 
time,  the  patient  had  been  put  on  a nourishing  diet, 
and  his  general  health  had  improved. 

298.  It  may  be  remarked,  that  electro-puncture 
would  have  a special  application  in  cases  of  false 
articulation,  where  the  object  is  to  increase  the  vital 
action  of  the  parts,  and  at  the  same  time  produce 
local  irritation. 

299.  Spontaneous  Luxation.  — The  following 
case  is  given  by  Dr.  Hoering.*  The  patient  was  a 
girl  of  18,  who  was  subject  to  spontaneous  luxa- 
tion of  the  femur.  Considering  it  due  to  relaxation 
of  the  capsular  ligament,  and  the  surrounding  muscles 
of  the  left  thigh,  Dr.  H.  applied  the  conductors  to  the 
left  sacral  and  left  inguinal  regions,  continuing  the 
application  for  fifteen  minutes,  and  increasing  its 
strength  progressively  during  each  sitting.  The 


Encyclog.  des  Sc.  Med.  June,  1847. 


too 


SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 


patient,  in  the  course  of  sixty-four  applications,  grad- 
ually recovered  the  use  of  the  limb. 

300.  Weakness  of  the  Back.  — This,  when  a 
muscular  affection,  is  readily  relieved  by  electricity. 
The  electro-magnetic  shocks  may  be  passed  down 
the  spinal  column,  and  also  across  the  part  most 
affected.  Where  it  is  symptomatic  of  scrofulous  dis- 
ease of  the  spine,  the  reports  of  cases  leave  it  to  be 
inferred  that  much  advantage  may  be  gained  by  in- 
creasing the  vitality  of  the  part  and  absorbent  action, 
by  the  application  of  electro-magnetism  or  galvanism 
in  the  early  stages  of  the  disease. 

301.  Curvature  of  the  Spine.  — This  distor- 
tion, where  the  result  of  unequal  muscular  contrac- 
tion, from  habitual  causes,  may  be  treated  by  passing 
an  electro-magnetic  or  galvanic  current  through  the 
muscles,  on  the  side  of  the  spine  which  is  relaxed. 
An  increase  of  vigor  in  the  deficient  muscles  is  stated 
to  be  readily  obtained.  This  mode  of  action  may  be 
applied  to  any  similar  distortion.  It  has  even  been 
resorted  to  in  strabismus,  without,  however,  any 
reliable  result. 

302.  Calculus.  — Dr.  Donovan  * states  that  Orio- 
li,  a distinguished  Italian,  and  Dr.  Harle,  of  Norwich, 
were  the  first  to  direct  attention  to  the  decomposing 
power  of  galvanism,  as  a means  of  dissolving  urinary 
calculi.  MM.  Prevost  and  Dumas  submitted  a calcu- 
lus composed  of  phosphates,  and  placed  in  water,  to 


* Dub.  Quart.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sc.  May,  1847.  — Braithewaite, 
Part  XY. 


STRANGULATED  HERNIA. 


191 


the  action  of  a battery  of  one  hundred  and  twenty 
pairs.  In  twelve  hours,  it  had  lost  twelve  grains. 
In  sixteen  hours  longer,  the  mass  became  so  friable 
as  to  be  broken  up,  by  the  slightest  pressure,  into 
small  crystalline  grains.  These  experimenters  then 
introduced  two  insulated  conductors  through  the  ure- 
thra of  a dog,  into  the  bladder.  The  dog  discovered 
no  uneasiness,  while  the  bladder  was  distended  with 
warm  water,  and  a pile  of  one  hundred  and  thirty-five 
pairs  was  connected  with  the  conductors.  A calculus 
attached  to  two  conductors,  was  subsequently  intro- 
duced into  the  bladder  of  a bitch,  and  connected,  at 
various  times,  with  a powerful  battery.  On  being 
withdrawn,  it  had  lost  in  weight,  and  become  friable, 
as  before.  The  animal,  killed  a few  days  after, 
showed  the  bladder  in  a perfectly  healthy  state. 
Calculi  of  uric  acid  are  spoken  of  as  probably  an  ex- 
ception to  this  mode  of  treatment.  MM.  Prevost  and 
Dumas  propose  the  introduction  of  two  conductors, 
by  means  of  a sound,  into  the  bladder,  so  arranged 
that  by  a spring  the  extremities  may  be  made  to 
spread  and  embrace  the  calculus. 

303.  Strangulated  Hernia,  and  Invagination.  — 
MM.  Emery,  Cloquet,  and  Dubois,  to  whom  the  sub- 
ject had  been  referred,  reported,  in  the  session  of  the 
French  Academy  of  the  25th  of  May,  1826,*  that  the 
passage  of  galvanism  from  twenty-five  pairs  from  the 
mouth  to  the  anus  produced  contractions  and  undula- 
tions of  such  a character,  in  the  intestines  of  animals, 


Revue  Med.  July,  1826. 


192 


SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 


upon  whom  the  experiment  was  made,  that  it  might 
be  usefully  employed  in  the  commencement  of  stran- 
gulated hernia  and  invagination  of  the  intestine,  as 
suggested  by  M.  Leroy.  Where  a part  of  the  intes- 
tine was  included  between  two  ligatures,  the  action 
was  diminished,  but  increased  in  the  contiguous  por- 
tions. 

304.  Prolapsus  Ani.  — This  disease,  where  it 
may  properly  be  treated  by  astringents,  or  by  means 
calculated  to  produce  organic  contraction,  comes  un- 
der the  class  of  those  which  may  be  bene-fited  by  the 
power  of  the  battery  over  relaxed  tissues. 

305.  Obstruction  of  (Esophagus  and  Larynx. — 
The  commission  of  the  French  Academy,  referred 
to  under  the  head  next  the  preceding,  observed  that 
the  progressive  contractions  of  the  oesophagus  were 
especially  increased  when  it  was  made  the  conductor 
of  the  galvanic  current.  This  fact  may  have  an  ap- 
plication to  various  cases  of  obstruction  or  stricture 
of  this  tube.  It  is  stated  by  Dr.  Golding  Bird*  that 
the  charge  of  a Leyden  jar,  transmitted  from  the  pit 
of  the  stomach  to  the  back,  causes  the  diaphragm 
to  contract  violently,  expelling  the  air  from  the 
lungs  with  a loud  shout.  This  might  also  have  a 
possible  application  in  accidental  obstructions  of  the 
larynx. 

306.  Poisoned  Wounds. — M.  Pravas  relates  ex- 
periments with  several  dogs,  showing  the  effects  of 
galvanic  cauterization  on  a poisoned  wound.  In  the 


Lond.  Med.  Gaz.  May,  1847. 


VENESECTION. 


193 


first  instance,  two  dogs  Avere  inoculated  with  the 
saliva  of  a rabid  dog,  in  the  kennel  of  the  Yeterinary 
College  at  Alfort.*  The  poles  of  a battery  of  forty- 
eight  pairs,  terminating  in  platinum  wires  or  strips, 
were  placed  in  contact  with  the  wound  of  one  of  the 
animals.  Thorough  cauterization  ensued,  and  the 
eschar  produced  was  detached  the  twelfth  day.  The 
dog  so  treated  had  shown  no  symptoms  of  the  disease 
four  months  afterwards.  The  other  dog  showed 
symptoms  of  hydrophobia  twenty-seven  days  after 
inoculation,  and  died  on  the  twenty-eighth.  An- 
other dog,  bitten  by  a rabid  animal,  was  subjected  to 
galvano-cauterization  forty-four  hours  afterwards,  and 
had  manifested  no  symptoms  of  the  disease  after  more 
than  four  months  had  passed.  In  a third  case,  two 
dogs  were  inoculated  with  the  saliva  of  a rabid  dog. 
The  first  was  cauterized  by  galvanism  after  fifty-four 
hours,  and  had  remained  well  for  more  than  four 
months.  The  second,  without  any  treatment,  showed 
symptoms  of  hydrophobia  ten  days  after  the  inocula- 
tion, and  died  two  days  subsequently. 

307.  Venesection. — It  is  well  known  that  a fluid, 
escaping  in  drops  from  a capillary  orifice,  may  be 
made  to  flow  in  a stream,  by  subjecting  it  to  elec- 
tricity on  an  insulating  stand.  Dr.  W.  Wright,  of 
London,  in  the  Lancet  of  October,  1831,  states  that 
he  has  placed  patients,  in  whom  the  blood  escaped 
with  difficulty  from  a vein,  on  an  insulating  chair, 


* Revue  Med.  Dec.  1830. 

17 


194 


SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 


and  has  then  obtained  a ready  flow  by  turning  the 
machine.  The  cup,  in  this  case,  receiving  the  blood, 
should  also  be  insulated.  Circumstances  may  exist, 
in  which  advantage  may  be  taken  by  the  practitioner 
of  this,  as  well  as  many  other  applications  of  elec- 
tricity of  a mechanical  or  miscellaneous  character. 


SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER 


TO  THE  FIFTH  EDITION. 


308.  The  first  edition  of  this  treatise  was  prepared 
in  1848,  to  supply  the  want,  then  beginning  to  be 
felt,  of  an  impartial  and  comprehensive  state- 
ment of  the  principles  and  facts  of  Electro- Medical 
Application.  In  pursuance  of  this  object  several 
hundred  volumes  of  Medical  Journals  and  Reviews, 
in  different  languages,  issued  during  the  last  three 
quarters  of  a century,  were  examined,  and  every 
published  case  of  the  electrical  treatment  of  disease, 
whether  successful  or  otherwise,  was  reported  in  the 
preceding  pages.  Laws  and  methods  of  application 
were  deduced  from  these  sources  as  well  as  from  im- 
mediate observation  and  the  current  experience  of 
electro-medical  practice  in  America.  The  book  was 
therefore  original  in  its  classification  and  foreshad- 
owing of  laws,  and  has  remained  until  the  present 
time  the  most  thorough  treatise  on  the  subject  pub- 
lished in  this  country,  if  not  in  the  English  language. 

309.  The  development  of  electro-medical  science 
involves,  necessarily,  the  knowledge  of  two  sciences ; 
and  this  fatality  has  attended  its  pursuit  almost  in- 
variably, that  the  practitioners  best  able  to  use  elec- 
tricity have  been  ignorant  of  physiology  and  the  his- 

(195) 


196 


SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 


tory  of  disease,  while  those  most  experienced  in  the 
medical  profession  have  been  incapable  of  handling 
with  discrimination  the  protean  agent,  electricity. 
Two  important  works  have  been  recently  published 
in  France  by  distinguished  physicians,  M.  Duchenne, 
of  Boulogne,*  and  M.  A.  BecquereLf  of  Paris.  Both 
of  these  works  contain  much  valuable  medical  and 
experimental  observation  ; but  their  methods  of 
using  electricity  are  often  inadequate,  and  founded 
sometimes  on  grave  misapprehensions  of  the  nature 
of  the  agent.  The  forms  of  apparatus,  especially  in 
the  first-named  work,  are  objectionable,  and  very  in- 
ferior to  the  more  simple  and  less  costly  apparatus 
used  in  this  country. 

310.  In  this  treatise  it  will  be  seen  that  the  writer 
has  dwelt  especially  on  the  reactions  of  electricity 
with  the  living  system  in  health  and  disease,  and  that 
much  attention  has  also  been  given  to  the  forms  of 
medical  electricity,  and  to  the  instruments  for  its 
application,  as  the  success  of  the  treatment  depends 
largely  on  the  modes  of  developing  and  using  this 
principle* 

311.  Electricity  is  now  commanding  such  gen- 
eral attention  in  Europe,  and  is  passing  so  rapidly 
into  practice  as  an  essential  agent  in  therapeutics, 
that  the  best  service  which  can  be  done  to  electro- 
medical science  is  to  point  out  prominently,  in 
this  chapter,  the  chief  source  of  misapprehension 

* “ Traite  d’ Electrisation  localisee.”  1855. 

t “Traite  des  Applications  de  l’Electricite  & la  Therapeutique 
Medicale  et  Chirurgique.”  Paris,  1857. 


FORMS  OF  ELECTRICITY. 


197 


which  has  vitiated  its  theory  and  paralyzed  its 
practice. 

312.  Into  all  electrical  currents  two  elements,  quan- 
tity and  intensity , enter,  in  infinitely  variable  propor- 
tion, each  exerting  a different  physiological  influence, 
as  well  as  conferring  different  physical  properties. 
Electricity  differs  from  itself,  according  as  one  or 
the  other  of  these  qualifying  elements  predominates, 
presenting  so  immense  a scale  of  diversity,  that  its 
extremes  are  almost  unrecognizable.  At  one  of 
these  extremes  we  have  the  electrical  spark,  whose 
quantity  is  almost  inappreciable,  while  its  intensity 
is  absolute.  The  physiological  effect  of  this  is  sim- 
ple stimulation.  At  the  other  extreme  \ve  have  the 
current  from  a single  galvanic  pair,  whose  quantity 
is  so  enormous  as  hardly  to  be  comparable  with  that 
of  the  electric  spark,  while  its  intensity  is  so  feeble 
as  to  be  unable,  under  most  conditions,  to  overcome 
the  resistance  offered  to  its  passage  by  the  tissues 
and  fluids  of  the  body.  By  adding  to  the  number 
of  galvanic  pairs,  however,  we  obtain  a correspond- 
ing increase  in  intensity,  until,  in  a series  of,  from 
ten  to  fifty  or  a hundred  pairs,  we  possess  a current 
of  immense  quantity , as  well  as  intensity  or  energy, 
which  we  can  cause  to  traverse  any  nerve,  organ, 
member,  or  part  of  the  system.  The  physiological 
effect  of  this  quantity  current  may  be  stated  to  be 
vital  or  organic  reaction,  affecting  the  life  of  the  tis- 
sues, as  well  as  the  function  of  the  nerves.  The 
currents  in  which  intensity  predominates  are  stimu- 
lant and  alterative,  chiefly  confined  in  their  action 
17* 


198  SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 

to  the  nervous  system.  These  waken  the  system 
from  narcotism,  etherization,  suspended  animation, 
and  some  states  of  nervous  torpor  and  paralysis, 
while  the  currents  characterized  chiefly  by  quantity 
react  with  the  organs  and  tissues  in  a manner  imi- 
tated or  approached  by  no  other  agent  in  nature,  in- 
creasing the  circulation,  even  perhaps  to  engorge- 
ment, if  prolonged,  raising  each  organ  to  its  high- 
est vital  state,  and  developing  or  quickening  its 
functions. 

313.  Between  the  extremes  of  the  electric  spark 
and  the  galvanic  series  we  have  the  induced  electro- 
magnetic or  magneto-electric  shocks.  These  have 
more  quantity  and  less  intensity  than  the  spark,  but 
still  are  to  be  considered  as  intensity  currents,  espe- 
cially in  their  characteristic  interrupted  or  convul- 
sive action.  For  the  full  effect  of  quantity  and  a 
continuous  current,  the  galvanic  battery  must  at 
present  be  used,  although  the  primary  current  of  a 
very  large  magneto-electric  machine  may  be  substi- 
tuted to  obtain  lesser  effects.*  A discovery  has 
recently  been  made  of  an  instrument  called  the 
Ruhmkorff  coil,  combining  for  the  first  time  the  high- 
est intensity  with  comparatively  large  quantity.  The 
flashes,  six  inches  or  more  in  length,  thus  obtained, 
bear  more  resemblance  to  lightning  in  their  energy 
than  any  thing  which  has  been  hitherto  obtained. 
A modification  of  this  apparatus  may  perhaps  be 
advantageously  applied  in  electro-medicine. 

314.  The  successful  application  of  electricity  to 


* See  Davis’s  Manual  of  Magnetism,  § 458. 


FORMS  OF  ELECTRICITY. 


199 


the  human  system  depends,  primarily,  upon  hold- 
ing the  balance  between  these  powers  of  quantity 
and  intensity , in  the  currents  applied,  and  adapting 
them  precisely  to  existing  vital  conditions.  The 
correspondence  between  electricity  and  the  special 
organic  or  vital  force  has  been  already  discussed 
(§  1).  It  is  only  necessary  now  to  call  attention  to 
the  importance  of  studying  electricity  in  its  whole 
scale  of  manifestations,  in  order  to  apply  it  in  strict 
accordance  with  vital  states,  with  every  one  of 
which  it  appears  to  have,  not  an  accidental,  but  a 
specific  and  corresponding  reaction. 

315.  While  electricity  is  endowed  with  these 
special  powers  in  relation  to  vitality,  it  has  also 
other  properties  which  render  its  use  in  therapeutics 
eminently  safe  and  easy.  Its  full  power  can  be  de- 
veloped and  withdrawn  in  an  instant.  It  is  capable 
of  application  to  internal  organs  and  tissues  with 
the  same  facility  as  to  the  surface.  It  can  be  sent 
through  the  body  in  any  linear  direction  desired. 
This  is  the  “ localized  electricity  ” on  which  M.  Du- 
chenne  insists,  the  principle  of  which  will  be  found 
to  have  been  fully  adopted  in  these  pages  some 
years  previous  to  Duchenne’s  publication.  Electrici- 
ty can  be  modulated  and  varied  indefinitely  in  its 
quality  and  strength.  It  can  be  given  in  a continu- 
ous current  or  in  intermittent  shocks.  It  leaves 
nothing  behind  it  in  the  system. 

316.  It  has  been  customary  to  “try  electricity”  in 
cases  of  paralysis  or  other  disease  without  any  idea 
or  knowledge  of  its  modulations.  This  kind  of 


200 


SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 


practice  has  given  no  systematic  results,  though 
sometimes  accidental  and  remarkable  cures  have 
followed.  These  have  constituted  the  chief  claim 
of  electricity  to  public  regard.  No  more  fruitful  or 
attractive  field  for  exploration  and  domain  can  offer 
itself  now  to  a young  practitioner  than  this  new  and 
opening  continent  of  electro-medical  science.  This 
may  be  illustrated  by  a single  example.  Compara- 
tively little  use  has  yet  been  made  of  the  great 
power  of  the  galvanic  current  continuously  applied 
to  any  organ.  The  menstrual  function  is  the  only 
one  in  which  the  uses  of  electricity  have  been  ex- 
tensively developed,  and  with  unvarying  success, 
according  to  Dr.  Golding  Bird  in  Guy’s  Hospital 
Reports.  We  know  (§  216)  that  the  function  of  the 
liver  is  quickened  by  the  battery  current  often  more 
readily  than  by  calomel.  What  might  not  be  hoped 
from  the  extended  use  of  galvanism  in  the  class  of 
diseases  in  this  country  characterized  by  a torpid 
condition  of  the  liver  ? 

317,  We  have  referred  to  the  physiological  rela- 
tions of  electricity,  to  the  different  character  of 
currents,  and  to  the  forms  of  medical  electricity. 
We  have  thus  passed  in  review  over  a part  of  the 
ground  more  systematically  treated  in  the  text  here- 
tofore. We  shall  proceed,  in  the  order  of  the  remain- 
ing divisions  of  this  book,  to  speak  of  recent  im- 
provements and  developments  in  application,  al- 
though it  will  be  impossible  to  present  more  than 
a general  view  of  the  state  of  medical  electricity 
in  a period  of  so  great  activity  and  such  general 


FORMS  OF  ELECTRICITY. 


201 


unfolding.  We  shall  endeavor  to  indicate  to  the 
practitioner  the  latest  methods  and  results. 

318.  The  quantity  current  of  the  galvanic  battery 
is  more  effective  and  powerful  than  the  induced 
magneto-electric  or  electro-magnetic  currents,  or 
than  the  electric  machine,  in  many  cases,  although 
every  form  of  electricity  has  its  important  applica- 
tions. Paralysis  of  special  sensation,  and  other  forms 
of  paralysis,  sometimes  yield  readily  to  the  battery 
after  resisting  entirely  the  induced  currents.  Cor- 
responding caution  is  required  in  using  the  galvanic 
current.  It  increases  organic  action,  as  its  first  ef- 
fect, and  where  this  is  inadmissible,  the  battery  can- 
not be  employed.  Neither  must  it  be  applied  too 
long,  so  as  either  to  engorge  organs  or  to  embarrass 
the  nerves  by  over  stimulation. 

319.  The  question  has  been  revived  whether  the 
direction  of  the  current  is  of  any  importance,  and 
some  of  the  French  practitioners,  who,  like  Du- 
chenne,  confine  themselves  mostly  to  induced  cur- 
rents, doubt  the  law  of  Matteucci,  (see  § 76,)  that 
electricity  exhausts  when  sent  in  the  direction  of 
the  ramification  of  the  nerves,  but  increases  vital 
reaction  when  sent  in  the  opposite  direction. 
Where  galvanism,  or  a really  efficient  current,  is 
used,  the  law  of  Matteucci,  cannot  be  set  aside. 
Sometimes  it  is  useful,  in  arousing  the  system,  or 
to  prevent  exhaustion  by  an  overpowering  monot- 
ony of  influence,  to  employ  currents  rapidly  reversed 
in  direction.  Where  there  is  a persistent  cerebral 
lesion,  especial  care  must  be  taken  not  to  send  the 


202 


SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 


galvanic  current  through  the  nerves  in  the  direction 
of  the  brain.  Indeed,  electricity  is  then  wholly  in- 
applicable. 

320.  The  use  of  the  constant  battery  marks  an 
era  in  electro-medicine.  It  would  be  generally  im- 
possible to  employ  a galvanic  series  which  required 
to  be  charged  every  day,  and  this  perhaps  explains 
its  unfrequent  employment  in  France.  A battery 
has  been  recently  introduced  by  Mr.  Hall,  which 
fulfils  all  the  conditions  of  an  apparatus  for  med- 
ical use.  This  is  represented  in  Fig.  9. 

Fig.  9. 


321.  A series  of  three  pairs  are  shown  in  con- 
nection. The  outer  cup  is  of  copper,  though  in 
an  improved  form  it  consists  of  a glass  cylindrical 
vessel  enclosing  a copper  cylinder.  Within  the 
copper  cylinder  is  a porous  cell,  a,  which  contains 
the  zinc  plate  b.  When  put  into  action  the  space 
between  the  copper  cylinder  and  the  porous  cell  is 
filled  with  crushed  crystals  of  blue  vitriol,  and  the 
porous  cell  within  is  filled  itself  with  water.  After 


FORMS  OF  ELECTRICITY. 


203 


standing  some  hours  the  water  filters  through,  and 
moistens  the  sulphate  of  copper.  The  battery  then 
is  ready  to  act,  and  only  requires  the  occasional 
addition  of  water,  continuing  in  good  operation  for 
several  months. 

322.  The  size  of  the  pairs  in  such  a battery 
determines  the  quantity  of  the  current  set  in  motion, 
and  also,  under  some  conditions,  the  heating  ef- 
fect ; but  this  last  cannot  be  considered  as  influen- 
tial, in  any  thermometric  sense,  within  the  body. 
Cups  of  from  half  a pint  to  three  pints  may  be 
used  conveniently.  They  may  also  be  arranged 
in  groups  of  any  given  number  so  that  two  or 
more  groups  may  be  connected  collaterally,  instead 
of  consecutively,  by  means  of  a “ switch,”  so  as  to 
increase  the  quantity  at  will,  instead  of  the  intensity . 

323.  For  many  applications  ten  or  fifteen  pairs 
of  this  battery  are  abundant ; but  in  some  cases  of 
paralysis  it  would  require  fifty  pairs,  and  occasion- 
ally, though  rarely,  a larger  number.  The  battery 
may  be  placed  in  a closet,  and  its  current  brought 
to  the  office  table  by  means  of  wires. 

324.  In  order  to  bring  the  constant  battery 
within  the  grasp  of  the  operator  with  as  much 
facility  as  the  electro-magnetic  apparatus,  I have 
had  a switch-  and  key-board  constructed  by  Mr. 
Hall  for  the  office  table,  which  gives  entire  control 
over  any  number  of  cups  of  the  battery  from  one  to 
one  hundred.  A plan  of  this  is  represented  in 
Fig.  10.  The  galvanic  pairs  of  the  battery  are  con- 
nected in  groups  of  ten.  Each  of  the  first  ten 


204 


SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 


Fig . 10. 


pairs  are  connected  by  wires  with  the  screw  cups  at 
A,  and  thence  under  the  board  with  the  correspond- 
ing divisions  of  the  switch-board  B.  The  terminal 
cups  of  each  group  of  ten  are  connected  with  the 
screw  cups  at  C,  and  thence  under  the  board  with 
the  corresponding  divisions  of  the  switch-board  D. 
By  this  means,  if  the  switch  D should  be  set  at  the 
division  II,  and  the  switch  B at  the  division  4, 
twenty-four  cups  of  the  battery  would  be  indicated 
as  connected  with  the  screw  cups  a,  &,  communi- 
cating with  the  handles.  E represents  a clock-work 
electrotome,  which,  when  wound  up,  causes  a pen- 
dulum, armed  with  platina,  to-  vibrate  between  two 
little  metallic  pillars,  making  and  breaking  the  circuit 
with  rapidity.  If  E is  not  brought  into  action,  the 
current  may  be  broken  or  closed  at  such  intervals 
and  for  such  times  as  the  operator  pleases  by  ma- 
nipulating the  telegraph  key  F.  If  it  is  desired  to 


ELECTRO  - MAGNETIC  APPARATUS.  205 


reverse  the  current  while  operating,  this  is  readily 
done  by  the  pole  changer  G.  All  these  different 
methods  may  be  employed,  varying  the  number  of 
cups  at  pleasure  without  disturbing  the  handles  in 
contact  with  the  patient  or  the  connecting  wires 
screwed  into  the  cups  a and  b.  H is  a rasp.  If  the 
peculiar  shock  of  the  rasp  is  desired,  the  wire  is 
taken  from  the  screw  cup  b and  drawn  over  the 
rasp  at  pleasure. 

325.  An  improved  and  very  portable  mag- 
neto-electric machine,  furnished  at  a low  price, 
is  represented  in  Fig.  11.  It  is  so  arranged  that 


Fig.  11. 


the  induced  shocks  are  all  in  one  direction  when  the 
handle  is  turned  one  way,  and  in  the  opposite  when 
it  is  turned  in  the  other,  The  direction  is  easily 
18 


206  SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 

ascertained  by  the  sensation,  according  to  the  rule 
in  § 46.  The  breakpiece  is  also  adjustable,  so 
that  a feeble  and  continuous  primary  current  can 
be  obtained  instead  of  the  shocks.  The  strength 
of  the  shocks  is  adjustable  to  a certain  extent  by 
the  movable  armatures.  The  wires  and  handles  are 
seen  connected  with  the  box.  It  is  made  without 
belt  or  gearing,  and  makes  little  or  no  noise  in 
operating. 

326.  The  continuous  quantity  current  from 
large  magneto-electric  machines  has  been  employed 
lately  as  an  equivalent  for  the  battery  current  in 
telegraphing  and  electrotyping.  The  striking  ma- 
chinery of  the  twenty-four  fire  alarm  bells  of  the  city 
of  Boston  is  liberated  by  the  current  from  a magneto- 
electric machine.  Where  there  is  any  convenient 
power  at  hand  to  move  such  a machine,  it  can  be 
substituted  for  the  galvanic  battery  in  electro-med- 
icine, though  generally  at  greater  expense. 

327.  Fig.  12  represents  an  electro-magnetic  ap- 
paratus and  battery  enclosed  in  a box.  The  bat- 
tery is  excited  by  a solution  of  blue  vitriol  made  as 
in  § 20.  It  is  remarkable  that  the  batteries  de- 
scribed in  connection  with  the  recent  French  instru- 
ments are  all  excited  by  acid,  and,  in  most  of  them 
by  nitric  acid.  In  M.  Duchenne’s  instrument  there 
is  a nitric  acid  battery  in  the  drawer  of  the  electro- 
magnetic apparatus  itself.  This,  of  course,  has 
proved  in  practice  destructive  by  its  corrosive  fumes 
to  the  apparatus.  The  blue  vitriol  solution  is  not 
corrosive,  and  does  not  discharge  colors,  and  the 


ELECTRO  - MAGNETIC  APPARATUS.  207 


Fig.  12. 


battery  is  easily  taken  care  of.  It  may  be  remarked 
here  that  there  is,  practically,  no  advantage  in  gal- 
vanometers, rheometers,  and  other  scientific  toys,  in 
connection  with  these  instruments.  The  simple 
American  form,  as  in  Fig.  12,  with  the  movable 
bundle  of  wires  in  the  centre  of  the  helix,  and  a 
vibrating  interrupter,  seen  very  distinctly  in  Fig. 
13,  is  much  preferable.  (See  § 22.) 

328.  M.  Duchenne  and  some  others  have 
recommended,  for  the  production  of  the  shock,  the 
association  of  two  inducing  helices  composed  of 
wires  of  different  diameters  and  length,  with  the 


208 


SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 


idea  that  distinct  currents  of  different  orders  are 
thus  obtained.  In  another  arrangement,  for  the 
same  purpose,  the  helix  of  coarser  wire  conveying 
the  battery  current  is  made  to  form  part  of  the 
circuit  through  which  the  secondary  helix  discharges 
to  produce  the  shock.  Having  made  a long  series 
of  metrical  experiments  on  the  combination  of  cur- 
rents, induced  by  helices  of  different  sizes,  I am 
prepared  to  say  unqualifiedly  that  the  resultant  cur- 
rent in  all  such  cases  is  a single,  homogeneous  cur- 
rent through  the  body,  whose  quantity  is  equal  to 
the  sum  of  the  two  or  more  currents  combined,  and 
whose  intensity  is  equal  to  the  average  intensity  of 
the  currents.  Any  peculiar  effect,  therefore,  of  two 
or  more  combined  coils  must  be  ascribed  to  accident 
or  imagination.  The  notion  of  Duchenne  is  also 
corrected  by  De  la  Rive  in  his  recent  treatise  on 
electricity.* 

329.  The  diameter  and  length  of  the  coils 
regulate  within  certain  limits  the  relative  quantity 
and  intensity  of  the  induced  current.  Mr.  Hall 
has  made  some  instruments,  resembling  Fig.  3 
in  form,  tvith  a single  coarse  wire  helix  of 
copper,  which  is  both  the  battery  coil  and  the 
shock-inducing  coil.  In  these  the  relative  propor- 
tion of  the  quantity  to  the  intensity  of  the  result- 
ant shock  is  very  much  greater  than  in  the  common 
form.  As  a general  remark,  the  electro-magnetic 
machines,  as  commonly  made,  may  be  improved  in 
efficiency  by  increasing  the  diameter  of  the  wire  of 


* Treatise  on  Electricity,  vol.  iii.  p.  602. 


ELECTRO- BIAGNETIC  APPARATUS.  209 

the  secondary  coil,  and  making  it  of  copper.  An 
electro-magnetic  apparatus  in  a box,  containing  also 
stoppered  bottles  for  the  exciting  fluid,  and  a drawer 
for  handles,  is  represented  in  Fig.  13.  In  other  re- 
spects it  resembles  the  preceding  figure. 


Fig . 13. 


330.  The  handles  used  to  make  contact  with 
the  surfaces  or  cavities  of  the  body  are  an  essential 
part  of  the  means  of  medical  electricity.  In  addi- 
tion to  those  before  described,  (§  35,)  the  follow- 
ing forms  deserve  to  be  noticed.  They  all  have  a 
screw  cup  atone  extremity,  and  a shank  of  some 
non-conductirm  material. 

18* 


210  SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 


Fig.  15. 


331.  Fig.  14  represents  a Fig.  14. 

wire  card,  backed  with  metal, 
and  attached  to  a wooden  shank, 
which  encloses  the  rod  making 
connection  with  the  screw  cup. 

This  is  a new  and  very  good 
handle,  of  French  origin,  to 
make  contact  with  the  scalp  of 
the  head  through  the  hair,  which 
is  difficult  with  any  other  han- 
dle. It  is  also  employed  by 
Duchenne  as  an  electric  irritant 
or  excitant  of  the  skin. 

332.  In  Fig.  15,  a is  a 
slender  wire  handle,  which  I 
devised  for  applications  to  the 
meatus  of  the  external  ear. 

The  wire  is  wound  with  a lit- 
tle piece  of  cotton  flannel,  fas- 
tened by  a thread.  This  is 
moistened  with  salt  and  water 
before  introduction  into  the 
ear.  This  handle,  unlike  those 
generally  used,  produces  no 
excoriation,  b is  a spatula  of 
silver,  protected  with  sheet  in- 
dia  rubber,  except  at  the  ex- 
tremity, which  is  laid  on  the 

back  of  the  tongue,  and  which  I also  contrived  for 
use  in  connection  with  the  ear  handle,  a.  c is  a 
handle  for  introduction  within  the  rectum  for  the 


MODES  OF  APPLICATION. 


211 


purpose  of  exciting  summarily  the  peristaltic  action 
of  the  intestines.  For  this  purpose  the  back  of  the 
neck  may  be  made  the  other  pole  of  the  circuit,  by 
means  of  a sponge  handle,  or  the  spatula  b may  be 
used.  If  the  spatula  is  carried  far  back  on  the 
tongue,  or  a sponge  handle  applied  to  the  pharynx, 
there  is  a tendency  at  once  to  inverted  action  of 
the  oesophagus  and  emesis.  Care  must  be  taken 
in  touching  the  sides  of  the  pharynx,  as  the  pneu- 
mogastric  nerve  may  be  unpleasantly  influenced  by 
sympathy  with  the  glosso-pharyngeal. 

333.  In  Fig.  16,  a , 6,  and  c are  vaginal  handles. 


Fig,  61. 


212  SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 


a is  metallic  and ' plated,  forming  a conducting 
surface  to  the  vagina  through  its  whole  extent,  b is 
insulated  by  a glass  shank,  and  c by  bone  rubber, 
except  at  the  extremity,  which  is  a sponge.  These 
two  last  are  particularly  applicable  to  ulceration  of 
the  os  uteri.  For  exciting  the  menstrual  function 
one  of  these  may  be  used,  or  a sponge  handle  may 
be  applied  to  the  pubes,  with  the  opposite  handle 
in  either  case,  applied  to  the  spine,  d is  a flat  sponge^ 


Fig.  17. 


MODES  OF  APPLICATION. 


213 


handle,  which  may  be  conveniently  applied  to  the 
surface  of  the  body  beneath  the  clothes. 

334.  Fig.  17  represents  a sponge  handle  de- 
vised by  Mr.  Hall,  in  which  the  insulating  portion 
is  a hemisphere,  a,  of  bone  rubber,  lined  with  foil, 
so  as  to  make  good  conduction  between  the  battery 
wire,  6,  and  the  sponge,  c,  which  is  crowded  into 
the  hemisphere  when  the  handle  is  in  use.  The  ad- 
vantage of  this  handle  is,  that  the  sponge  can  be 
taken  out,  washed,  and  replaced  with  perfect  ease. 

335.  In  Fig.  18,  a is  the  shank  of  a universal 
handle,  into  which  a full  set  of  other  handles  slide. 
The  upper  extremity  constitutes  also  a cylinder  han- 


Fig.  18. 


214 


SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 


die,  which  may  be  grasped  by  the  hand,  b is  the 
ear  handle  ; c,  the  spatula  for  the  tongue  ; d , handle 
for  the  rectum ; e,  for  the  vagina ; /,  a flat  sponge ; 
g*,  a full  sponge  ; A,  the  electrical  eye  bath. 

336.  A very  valuable  method  of  application, 
now  much  in  use,  is  the  conduction  of  the  current 
to  the  diseased  part  by  the  hand  of  the  operator. 
(See  § 38.)  It  is  not  in  our  province  to  inquire  here 
how  far  any  vital  influence  accompanies  the  electri- 
cal influence  in  this  case  ; but  the  most  successful 
electro-medical  practitioners  have  been  those,  per- 
haps, using  this  method.  A friend  who  acts  in  this 
way  informs  me  that  he  habitually  experienced  ex- 
haustion when  making  his  hand  the  negative  pole 
or  distributor  of  the  electro-magnetic  shocks,  but 
never  on  making  himself  the  positive  conductor. 

337.  Recently  much  attention  has  been  drawn 
to  the  general  or  local  bath  as  a means  of  applying 
galvanism.  This  use  will  be  found  to  have  been 
fully  anticipated  in  the  preceding  pages,  § 39.  The 
eye  bath  (Fig.  8)  there  figured,  as  well  as  above, 
is  an  instrument  of  my  construction,  first  described 
here,  which  has  passed  into  European  practice. 

338.  The  common  method  of  administering 
electric  baths  is  to  place  the  patient  in  a bathing 
tub  containing  water  slightly  acidulated,  or  a weak 
saline  solution.  The  tub  should  be  either  of  wood, 
gutta  percha,  or  some  substance  not  liable  to  be 
attacked  by  the  solution  under  the  influence  of  the 
electric  current.  The  patient’s  hands  are  made  to 
grasp  a bar  covered  with  wet  cloth  above  the  bath, 


MODES  OF  APPLICATION. 


215 


which  bar  communicates  with  one  pole  of  the  gal- 
vanic battery.  The  other  pole  is  introduced  into 
the  bath  in  the  form  of  a plate  of  metal  or  handle, 
which  exercises  an  influence  over  different  parts  of 
the  body  in  proportion  to  its  nearness  to  them. 
The  galvanic  current  can  thus  be  easily  concen- 
trated on  any  part  of  the  body,  or  may  be  more  or 
less  diffused  in  its  ingress  or  egress. 

339.  Unless  the  metallic  conductors  or  han- 
dles which  convey  the  battery  current  to  the 
fluids  of  the  bath  are  made  of  platina,  or  some  un- 
oxidizable  material,  they  are  liable  to  be  attacked, 
and  a portion  of  metal  dissolved  and  carried  into 
the  bath,  under  the  influence  of  the  electric  current. 
A metallic  bath-tub  has  been  sometimes  used,  and 
made  itself  to  serve  as  one  pole  of  the  battery.  This 
is  obviously  improper,  unless  the  whole  tub  should 
be  made  of  an  unoxidizable  metal. 

340.  The  battery  current  used  in  these  baths 
has  been  obtained  frequently  from  ten,  twenty,  or 
even  thirty  Grove’s  cups.  Under  such  heroic  treat- 
ment very  powerful  effects  have  sometimes  been 
obtained,  and  rheumatic  and  paralytic  affections  of 
long  standing  have  been  broken  up.  But  I have 
also  seen  cases  in  which  severe  and  prolonged  neu- 
ralgia and  nervous  prostration  have  followed  the 
indiscreet  use  of  the  electric  bath.  In  the  hands  of 
a judicious  practitioner  it  is  one  of  the  most  efficient 
means  of  applying  electricity  generally  or  locally. 
(See  §39.)  An  extended  series  of  the  constant  sul- 
phate of  copper  battery  (Fig.  9)  may  be  substitut- 


216 


SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 


ed  for  the  Grove’s  battery,  requiring,  however,  two 
or  three  times  the  number  of  cups. 

341.  It  has  been  sometimes  claimed  for  these, 
baths  that  they  will  dissolve  and  remove  from  the 
animal  system  metallic  poisons  therein  contained. 
The  transfer  of  substances  under  the  influence  of 
galvanism  through  membranes  or  tissues  offering 
much  less  resistance  than  those  of  the  body,  is  a 
process  of  great  difficulty,  and  requiring  much 
time  and  power.  It  is  sufficient  to  say  that,  at  the 
most,  no  notable  quantity  of  a metallic  salt  could 
be  removed  from  the  system  without  subjecting  the 
organism  to  currents  whose  energy  and  duration 
would  exercise  a controlling  and  probably  destruc- 
tive influence  over  the  vital  functions,  and,  perhaps, 
the  tissues  themselves.  Where  lead  or  other  min- 
eral substances  are  precipitated  under  the  cuticle  or 
detained  in  the  pores  of  the  skin,  the  electric  bath 
may  readily  dissolve  them,  and  thus  give  rise  to  the 
idea  that  they  are  removed  from  the  interior  of  the 
system. 

342.  Galvanic  belts  have  been  introduced  into 
practice,  consisting  of  two  metals,  in  •electric  con- 
nection, worn  next  to  the  skin,  and  discharging 
through  the  intervening  or  neighboring  tissues  and 
organs  of  the  body.  Unlike  those  referred  to  in 
§ 44,  these  give  an  appreciable,  though  feeble 
constant  current,  and  some  testimony  has  been  ad- 
duced to  show  their  efficacy  in  chronic  affections,  as 
rheumatism,  neuralgia,  dyspepsia.  The  chain  of 
Pulvermacher  consists  of  numerous  pairs  of  zinc 


SPECIAL  APPLICATIONS.  217 

and  copper,  which,  when  dipped  for  a moment  in 
dilute  acid,  then  grasped  by  the  extremities  in  both 
hands  and  shaken,  produces  sensible  galvanic 
shocks  of  minute  quantity.  This  may  also  be  worn 
as  a belt ; but  it  is  to  be  regarded  rather  as  a toy 
than  a medical  instrument.  Where  the  metals  of  a 
galvanic  pair  to.uch  the  body,  silver  should  be  used 
instead  of  copper,  which  is  liable  to  poison  the  skin, 
and  the  place  of  contact  should  be  changed  from 
time  to  time,  to  avoid  too  great  irritation  under  the 
zinc  surface. 

343.  Nervous  deafness , or  auditory  paralysis, 
is  treated  by  M.  Duchenne  by  placing  the  patient 
on  his  side  and  filling  the  meatus  auditorius  half  full 
of  water.  Into  this,  but  not  touching  the  mem- 
branes of  the  ear,  a wire  is  introduced,  conveying 
electro-magnetic  shocks  to  the  ear  bath . The  other 
wire  of  the  electro-magnetic  apparatus  is  connected 
with  a moistened  sponge  handle  applied  to  the  nape 
of  the  neck.  Entire  success  is  stated  sometimes  to 
have  been  achieved  by  this  treatment.  Becquerel 
states  that  electro-magnetism  has  no  real  effect  in 
nervous  deafness  which  is  essential,  not  merely 
symptomatic.  After  prolonged  experiment  I have 
never  seen  any  benefit  in  this  form  of  paralysis  from 
the  electro-magnetic  shocks. 

344.  This  conclusion  led  me,  in  1848,  to  use 
the  direct  galvanic  current  of  from  one  to  twelve 
pairs  in  auditory  paralysis.  The  positive  wire  of 
the  battery  was  connected  with  the  ear  handle,  Fig. 
15,  a , and  the  negative  wire  successively  with  a 

19 


218 


SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 


cylinder  handle  held  in  the  hand,  with  a sponge 
handle  applied  to  the  nape  of  the  neck,  and  with 
the  spatula,  Fig.  15,  6,  placed  far  back  on  the  tongue. 
I found  at  once  that  the  continuous  current  of  the 
battery  entering  at  the  ear  produced  a condition 
which  tended  towards  syncope  or  unconsciousness, 
but  which  was  recovered  from  easily  without  gen- 
eral apparent  injury.  I therefore  withdrew  the  neg- 
ative wire  from  permanent  connection  with  the  bat- 
tery, and  made  the  application  always  afterwards 
by  touching  the  wire  momentarily  to  the  cups,  in- 
cluding first  only  two  or  three  in  the  circuit,  and 
gradually  increasing  the  number  up  to  twelve,  ac- 
cording to  the  endurance  of  the  patient.  The  ap- 
plication consisted  thus,  for  fifteen  or  twenty  min- 
utes, of  rapid  intermittent  shocks,  with  occasional 
entire  cessations,  never  using  the  continuous  cur- 
rent. Patients  who  showed  no  improvement  under 
electro-magnetism  gained  rapidly  and  at  once  un- 
der this  treatment.  My  friend,  Dr.  Edward  H. 
Clarke,  of  Boston,  who  has  tried  this  method,  al- 
lows me  to  say  that  while  he  has  never  seen  any 
advantage  from  electro-magnetism  in  nervous  deaf- 
ness, he  has  occasionally  seen  a notable  improve- 
ment follow  this  use  of  the  battery. 

345,  I believe  that  in  all  paralysis  of  special 
sensation  the  galvanic  current  will  be  found  much 
the  most  efficacious.  Even  M.  Duchenne  speaks  of 
the  special  power  of  the  galvanic  current  to  excite 
the  retina,  — a power  which  requires  caution  in  its 
development,  but  which  conducts  sometimes  to  a 


SPECIAL  APPLICATIONS. 


219 


favorable  issue  in  amaurosis . I have  seen  a decided 
gain  in  a partially  amaurotic  eye  connected  with 
nervous  deafness  on  the  same  side.  In  this  case  the 
positive  sponge  handle,  moistened  with  salt  and 
water,  (as  is  necessary  where  galvanic  currents  of 
low  intensity  are  used,)  was  placed  over  the  closed 
lids  of  the  eye,  and  the  negative  sponge  handle  was 
placed  on  the  back  of  the  neck.  My  electric  eye 
bath,  (Fig.  8,)  may  be  used  with  advantage  in 
the  same  application.  Where  any  organic  lesion 
exists  in  connection  with  amaurosis,  of  course  elec- 
tricity is  inapplicable.  In  ophthalmic  inflammation , 
electricity  acts  with  remarkable  efficiency  and  mild- 
ness, always  benefiting,  except,  perhaps,  in  the  early 
stages.  Both  galvanism  and  electro-magnetism,  ap- 
plied as  above,  are  useful  here,  but  especially  the 
former. 

346.  Aphonia  is  often  relieved  by  galvanism 
either  applied  directly  by  a small  sponge  handle 
or  olive-shaped  metallic  handle,  to  the  pharynx, 
(avoiding  the  sides,)  or  by  passing  the  current 
through  and  through  the  throat  from  without.  M. 
Duchenne  has  succeeded  with  electro-magnetism. 
Golding  Bird  states  that  he  has  known  the  voice 
almost  immediately  to  return  by  insulating  the 
patient,  and  drawing  sparks  from  the  region  of  the 
larynx.  In  this  connection  I will  mention  the  re- 
markable efficiency  of  galvanism  in  chronic  inflam- 
mation of  the  throat.  The  battery  current  may  be 
sent  through  the  throat  from  the  outside  in  differ- 
ent directions  by  means  of  two  sponge  handles. 


220 


SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 


Where  there  is  an  inactive  state  of  the  mucous 
membrane,  and  an  accumulation  of  adherent  mu- 
cus, it  is  sometimes  instantly  started  by  the  gal- 
vanic current.  Twelve  pairs  is  usually  sufficient  to 
effect  this.  There  is  every  reason  to  expect  decided 
benefit  from  the  same  application  in  membranous 
or  other  croup . 

347.  Tonic  and  clonic  convulsions , not  pro- 
ceeding from  any  existing  lesion,  have  been  sub- 
dued, for  the  time,  at  least,  according  to  Becquerel, 
both  by  continuous  and  induced  currents.  Many 
cures  of  epilepsy  have  been  lately  reported,  though 
without  sufficient  detail.  In  this  disease,  it  is 
certainly  desirable  to  give  to  electricity  the  fullest 
trial.  M.  Person  is  stated  to  have  passed  the  cur- 
rent from  the  epigastrium  to  the  first  cervical  verte- 
bra by  means  of  electro-puncture  needles.  The 
patient,  a girl  of  twelve,  epileptic  for  six  years,  re- 
covered.* The  continuous  current  of  the  battery 
cautiously  applied  is  most  to  be  relied  on  in  these 
cases,  as  well  as  in  catalepsy  and  hysteria. 

348.  Neuralgia  yields  readily  in  many  cases 
to  galvanism,  and  also  to  electro-magnetism  passed 
through  the  seat  of  pain.  In  using  the  galvanic 
battery  for  nervous  deafness,  Dr.  E.  PL  Clarke  in- 
forms me  that  he  has  seen  neuralgic  affections  of 
the  head,  which  were  favorably  influenced,  and 
which  sometimes  disappeared  altogether.  M. 
Duchenne  reports  a cure  of  angina  pectoris  by  the 
powerful  application  of  electro-magnetic  shocks 


* Becquerel  Traite,  p.  248. 


SPECIAL  APPLICATIONS. 


221 


applied,  during  the  attack,  to  the  mammary  region 
and  upper  part  of  the  sternum  in  such  manner  as 
to  excite  the  skin  powerfully.  ( See  § 358.) 

349.  Nervous  headache  yields  often  readily  to 
the  sponge  handles  connected  with  a few  cups  of 
the  galvanic  battery,  the  positive  sponge  placed  on 
the  forehead,  and  the  negative  at  the  nape  of  the 
neck.  Dr.  Daniel  Parker,  of  Billerica,  informs  me 
that  he  applies  electro-magnetism  successfully  by 
one  sponge  on  the  forehead,  temples,  or  top  of  the 
head,  and  the  other  at  the  gastric  region.  The  pit 
of  the  stomach  may  often  thus  be  substituted  for 
the  back  of  the  neck,  especially  in  applications 
where  we  may  suppose  that  the  stomach,  liver,  or 
uterine  system  is  involved  as  a cause  of  disturbance 
in  the  special  affection  we  are  treating. 

350.  Dr.  E.  H.  Clarke  informs  me  of  the  case 
of  a middle-aged  man  of  sedentary  habits  and  oc- 
cupation, who  is  liable  to  severe  sick  headaches, 
especially  after  public  speaking,  or  when  his  di- 
gestion is  not  good,  who  has  obtained  repeated  and 
speedy  relief  from  electro-magnetism,  one  handle 
being  grasped  in  his  hand,  the  other  handle  being 
applied  to  the  epigastrium.  The  headache  was 
alleviated  in  ten  minutes,  and  in  twenty  the  re- 
lief was  complete. 

351.  Cases  are  continually  occurring  of  the  suc- 
cessful use  of  eleetro-magnetism  in  narcotism  or 
suspended  animation . No  other  vital  stimulant  is 
comparable  to  it  in  these  cases.  M.  Duchenne 
states  that  artificial  respiration  may  be  produced  by 

19  * 


222  SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 

the  alternate  application  and  withdrawal  of  the 
poles  of  any  powerful  electro-magnetic  apparatus 
to  the  spot  where  the  phrenic  nerve  passes  the  an- 
terior scalenus  muscle  on  each  side.  “ The  instant 
that  the  current  is  passed,  the  lower  ribs  expand,  the 
abdominal  walls  rise,  and  air  rushes  with  sound 
into  the  lungs.  After  a second  or  two  the  current 
is  broken,  the  walls  of  the  chest  subside,  and  ex- 
piration takes  place/*  * which  may  be  assisted  by 
external  pressure. 

352.  No  use  of  galvanic  electricity,  perhaps, 
gives  greater  or  more  immediate  relief  than  that  in 
asthma , which  is  described  § 174. 

353.  Dr.  Geo.  B.  Wood,  quoting  largely  from 
M.  Duchenne,  says,  “ In  the  neuralgic  form  rheuma- 
tism will  often  yield  with  great  facility  to  the  elec- 
tric influence  ; and  it  is  probable  that  many  of  the 
cases  treated  successfully  under  the  names  of 
neuralgia,  sciatica,  angina  pectoris,  &c.,  have  been 
either  of  this  character  or  gouty.  But  ordinary 
muscular  subacute  rheumatism,  such  as  lumbago, 
pleurodynia,  torticollis,  [wry-neck,]  &c.,  will  also 
frequently  yield  to  the  remedy  as  a charm.  Some- 
times a single  faridization  of  the  skin  [irritating 
application  of  electro-magnetism]  is  sufficient  to 
effect  a cure ; but  more  frequently  the  pain  returns, 
and  five  or  six  applications  may  be  necessary  for 
the  purpose.  It  should  not  be  abandoned  till  the 
last  vestige  of  pain  has  been  removed.  Rheumatic 


* Wood’s  Therapeutics  and  Pharmacology,  vol.  i.  p.  547. 


SPECIAL  APPLICATIONS.  223 

arthralgia  will  also  often  yield  happily  to  the 
remedy.  To  acute  inflammatory  rheumatism  it  is 
wholly  inapplicable.  * * * Rheumatic  contraction 
of  the  muscles,  which  not  unfrequently  affects  the 
face,  neck,  shoulder,  and  parts  of  the  chest,  and 
which  has  a very  disagreeable  distorting  effect, 
will  generally  yield  to  this  remedy  applied  to  the 
skin.”  * 

354.  Dr.  Golding  Bird  states  that  he  has  re- 
duced rheumatic  effusion  in  the  joints  by  insulating 
the  patient,  and  “ drawing  strong  sparks  from  the 
joint,  till  the  skin  becomes  red  and  papulated  ” f 

355.  Dr.  Edward  H.  Clarke  informs  me  that 
he  has  known  a rheumatic  joint,  which  had  been  so 
stiff  as  to  admit  of  scarcely  any  motion,  become 
moderately  flexible  under  the  influence  of  a strong 
local  electric  bath  ; but  he  does  not  know  how  per- 
manent the  relief  continued. 

356.  Becquerel  gives  a detailed  statement  of  a 
case  J in  which  he  recalled  the  secretion  of  milk  to 
the  left  breast  of  a young  woman,  from  which  it  had 
disappeared  almost  entirely  eleven  days  previously. 
The  electro-magnetic  shocks  were  passed  by  means 
of  sponge  handles  through  the  breast  from  side  to 
side,  in  different  directions,  for  fifteen  minutes  at 
each  of  three  sessions.  The  milk  began  to  return 
after  the  first  application,  and  it  continued  abun- 
dant after  the  third. 


* Wood’s  Therapeutics  and  Pharmacology,  vol.  i.  p.  550. 
f Lectures  by  Golding  Bird,  Philadelphia,  1854,  p.  187. 

% A.  Becquerel,  Traite  des  Applications,  &c.,  p.  292. 


224  SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 


357.  Dr.  Daniel  Parker,  of  Billerica,  who  has 
used  electro-magnetism  extensively,  informs  me 
that  he  relies  upon  it  in  congested  states  of  the 
lungs  and  bowels,  applying  it  both  generally  and 
locally  at  the  same  time  by  means  of  four  wires, 
two  positive  and  two  negative,  proceeding  from  the 
electro-magnetic  apparatus.  This  method  of  divid- 
ing currents,  or  sending  them  in  different  directions 
at  the  same  time,  deserves  consideration.  Dr. 
Parker  states  that  in  cases  of  cholera  and  dysentery 
he  has  seen  the  pain  subside  speedily  under  this 
treatment.  He  also  states  that  he  has  never  seen 
any  thing  act  so  kindly  on  sore,  inflamed,  and  ulcer- 
ated lungs.  This  is  supported  by  the  peculiarly 
favorable  action  of  galvanism  on  chronic  inflamma- 
tion of  the  throat,  already  referred  to,  and  on  mu- 
cous surfaces  generally.  Galvanism,  however,  can- 
not be  used  in  most  cases  of  acute  inflammation, 
* while  the  electro-magnetic  current  may  still  be  avail- 
able. Dr.  Parker  states  that  he  has  used  electro- 
magnetism with  invariable  benefit  in  typhoid  fever, 
in  measles  and  scarlet  fever . In  the  latter  disease  he 
places  one  positive  handle  in  the  hand  of  the  pa- 
tient, applies  another  positive  sponge  to  the  back 
of  the  neck,  one  negative  handle  to  the  feet,  and 
the  other  negative  sponge  he  passes  over  the  gastric 
region  and  about  the  throat,  continuing  the  opera- 
tion for  about  fifteen  minutes.  Three  or  four  ap- 
plications are  sometimes  required,  and  the  recovery 
is  complete,  no  bad  effects  remaining  in  ear,  eyes, 
or  lungs,  or  any  ascitical  difficulties. 


SPECIAL  APPLICATIONS. 


225 


358.  The  action  of  electricity  upon  the  skin  opens 
one  of  the  most  important  chapters  of  its  applica- 
tion. As  a revulsive  agent  it  may  be  employed 
to  stimulate  the  skin  to  its  highest  vascular  con- 
dition, even  to  inflammation.  A galvanic  current 
of  large  quantity  acts  very  powerfully  on  the  sur- 
face, especially  under  the  handle  at  which  the  elec- 
tricity leaves  the  system.  M.  Duchenne’s  method  of 
exciting  the  surface  by  the  use  of  electro-magnetism 
consists  in  drying  the  skin  artificially  by  lycopodium 
or  other  absorbent  powder,  which  concentrates  the 
electric  current  at  its  point  of  entrance  or  departure, 
and  produces  great  excitement  of  the  skin.  In  so 
far  as  the  influence  is  peculiar  in  this  case,  it  is 
simply  due  to  the  revulsive  action.  Duchenne 
seems  to  think  that  the  electricity  so  applied  is  direct- 
ed to  the  surface  exclusively  and  does  not  obey  its 
invariable  law  of  transmission  through  the  deep- 
seated  tissues  or  organs  which  lie  most  nearly  in  a 
straight  line  between  the  poles  or  handles  through 
which  the  current  enters  or  leaves  the  system.  By 
using  moist  conductors,  or  by  moistening  the  skin, 
the  current  is  diffused  at  the  point  of  entrance  or 
departure,  and  exerts  a less  intense  effect  on  particu- 
lar points  of  the  skin.  The  effects  of  the  electric 
bath  or  of  the  moist  sponge  are  very  decided  upon 
diseased  surfaces.  The  influence  of  electricity  in 
ophthalmia  has  already  been  referred  to.  In  erysip- 
elas it  is  very  effective. 

359.  Dr.  Daniel  Parker  reports  electro-magnet- 
ism  as  highly  efficient  in  ulceration  of  the  os  uteri , 


226 


SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 


and  in  promoting  absorption  or  resolution  of  uterine 
tumors.  Its  influence  upon  a tumor  like  the  com- 
mon boil  is  very  marked,  promoting  suppuration  or 
discussion  at  an  early  day. 

360.  In  his  “Localized  Electricity ” M.  Du- 
chenne  has  dwelt  upon  the  importance  of  being 
able  to  exercise  or  call  into  action  each  separate 
muscle.  The  handles  used  for  this  purpose  may  be 
sponges ; or,  for  small  muscles,  like  those  of  the 
face,  or  intercostals,  or  for  deep-seated  muscles,  con- 
ical metallic  conductors,  covered  with  moistened 
leather.  They  should  be  placed  from  one  to  four 
inches  apart  over  the  course  of  the  muscle  which  it 
is  proposed  to  excite.  The  following  observations 
on  this  subject  are  credited  by  Dr.  Wood  in  general 
terms  to  the  work  of  M.  Duchenne  : * “ The  influ- 
ence is  never  to  be  directed  to  the  tendons.  To 
act  on  a muscle  duly,  its  whole  surface  must  be 
covered;  and  consequently,  if  this  is  large,  the  ex- 
citors  [surface  conductors]  must  be  moved  from  point 
to  point  successively,  until  the  purpose  has  been 
accomplished.  The  muscle  is  known  to  be  con- 
tracting by  its  firmness  or  hardness  under  the  fingers, 
and  it  often  happens  that  one  part  of  a single  mus- 
cle will  be  relaxed,  while  another  contracts.  The 
thicker  the  muscle,  the  more  intense  must  be  the 
current  applied.  In  the  face  it  is  difficult  to  avoid 
affecting  the  nerves  so  abundantly  distributed  over 
it.  One  of  these  is  known  to  be  touched  when  the 


Wood’s  Therapeutics  and  Pharmacology,  yol.  i.  p.  527. 


SPECIAL  APPLICATIONS. 


227 


contraction  extends  to  several  muscles  simultane- 
ously. Should  this  happen,  the  excitors  should  be 
moved  a very  short  distance  from  the  point  until 
the  effect  is  no  longer  produced.”  “ When  a muscle, 
on  account  of  its  depth,  cannot  be  reached  directly 
by  the  electric  influence,  it  may  be  excited  by  means 
of  its  supplying  nerve.  The  excitement  of  a nerve 
or  of  a muscle  always  produces,  in  the  healthy  state, 
both  a sensation  and  a contraction.  But  the  sus- 
ceptibility of  different  nerves  and  muscles  is  very 
different  in  degree;  and  a force  which  will  affect 
one  but  slightly,  will,  on  another,  act  with  great 
energy.  Again : while  one  part  is  unusually  ex- 
citable in  relation  to  contractility,  another  is  more 
so  in  relation  to  sensibility.  It  is  against  the  latter 
that  the  operator  must  be  particularly  on  his  guard, 
prepared  to  diminish  the  force  of  the  instrument 
when  the  influence  becomes  excessive.  Sometimes 
the  sensibility  to  pain  is  so  great  as  to  preclude  this 
method  of  electrization.  It  is  apt  to  be  particularly 
strong  in  the  muscles  of  the  face,  supplied  by  the 
fifth  pair.  The  excitor  should  never  be  placed  over 
the  points  corresponding  with  the  suborbitar  or 
mental  nerve ; and  the  excitation  of  the  frontal 
nerve  produces  severe  pain,  which  radiates  through 
the  head.  The  muscles  of  the  eyelid,  of  the  alse  nasi, 
and  of  the  upper  and  lower  lips  are  peculiarly  sus- 
ceptible. Of  the  muscles  of  the  neck,  the  platysma 
myoides,  the  upper  half  of  the  sterno  mastoid,  and 
the  external  edge  of  the  upper  half  of  the  trapezius, 
are  much  more  excitable  than  the  remainder.  The 


228 


SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 


great  pectoral  and  the  muscles  of  the  subspinal  fossa 
are  rather  sensitive,  the  deltoid  and  muscles  of  the 
arms  somewhat  less,  the  anterior  being  much  more 
so  than  the  posterior.  The  long  dorsal  and  the 
sacro-lumbar  are  but  slightly  sensitive.  The  gluteal 
and  fascia  lata  muscles  are  very  much  so,  compared 
with  those  on  the  outer  and  posterior  parts  of  the 
thigh  ; those  of  the  internal  crural  region  more  so 
than  those  of  the  external.  The  posterior  muscles 
of  the  leg  are  but  slightly  sensitive,  compared  with 
the  anterior  and  external.” 

361.  Electro-magnetism  has  been  applied  suc- 
cessfully for  the  production  of  uterine  contraction  in 
an  increasing  number  of  cases.  In  amenorrhaea,  the 
shock  of  the  Leyden  jar,  the  electro-magnetic  shocks, 
and  the  galvanic  current,  have  all  been  employed 
with  the  greatest  success. 

362.  Dr.  Edward  H.  Clarke  informs  me  of  the  case 
of  a woman  who  suffered  several  years  from  profuse 
leucorrhasa.  She  had  partial  prolapsus  uteri,  with 
a congested  os  uteri,  liable  to  attacks  of  ulceration. 
Occasionally  there  was  profuse  purulent  discharge 
from  the  cavity  of  the  uterus.  She  was  subjected 
to  treatment  for  a long  time.  Various  applications, 
local  and  general,  were  made,  and,  on  the  whole, 
she  improved.  Still  the  leucorrhoea  continued  as 
profuse  as  ever.  Electricity  was  tried  by  means  of 
a bath.  The  water  serving  to  conduct  the  electric 
current  was  brought  in  contact  with  the  os  uteri 
through  a speculum  in  the  vagina.  While  the  parts 
were  subjected  to  the  influence  of  the  battery,  a 


SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 


229 


most  copious  discharge  poured  out  of  the  vagina. 
After  five  or  six  applications  the  leucorrhcea  sub- 
sided altogether,  and  did  not  reappear  for  nearly 
three  months.  It  then  came  on  again,  and  a repeti- 
tion of  the  use  of  the  battery  was  not  followed  by  a 
similar  cessation  of  the  discharge.  The  use  of  elec- 
tricity in  uterine  ulceration  has  already  been  re- 
ferred to. 

363.  Invagination  of  the  intestine  and  strangu- 
lated hernia  are  both  reported  as  having  been  suc- 
cessfully treated  by  introducing  one  conductor  into 
the  rectum,  and  applying  the  other  over  the  muscles 
of  the  abdomen  or  tumor.  The  second  conductor 
has  been  sometimes  applied  to  the  cardiac  orifice  of 
the  stomach,  by  being  made  of  proper  form,  and  be- 
ing introduced  into  the  oesophagus. 

364.  Galvano-cautery. — The  power  of  a gal- 
vanic current  to  heat  a platina  wire,  through  which 
it  passes,  to  incandescence,  has  been  made  by  Mid- 
deldorpf,  of  Breslau,  the  basis  of  an  important  sur- 
gical application,  which  is  illustrated  in  a volume 
devoted  to  this  process.*  The  current  of  a Grove’s 
battery  of  from  one  to  four  pairs  is  employed.  A 
double  cannula  of  wood  or  other  insulating  material 
is  used,  through  which  two  copper  conducting  wires 
pass,  which  are  connected  at  their  extremities  by  a 
loop  of  comparatively  fine  platina  wire.  When  the 
battery  is  connected  through  the  copper  wires,  the 
platina  loop  becomes  heated,  according  to  the  quan- 

* “Die  galvano-caustik,  ein  Beitrag  zur  operativen  medicin,  von 
Dr.  Albrecht  Theodor  Middeldorpf.,,  Breslau.  1854. 

20 


230  SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 


tity  of  the  current,  passing  gradually  through  the 
whole  thermometric  scale,  even  up  to  the  melting 
point  of  platina.  The  loop  can  be  made  of  any 
shape  desired,  and 
when  incandescent 
can  be  used  as  a 
knife  to  burn  a path 
through  tissues 
which  it  is  desirable 
to  remove.  The  pa- 
tient, being  subject- 
ed to  ether,  experi- 
ences no  suffering. 

Amputations  and 
extirpations,  where 
actual  cautery  is  de- 
sired, on  account  of 
the  danger  of  hem- 
orrhage, or  other 
causes,  can  readily 
be  accomplished  by 
this  method. 

365.  Fig.  19, 
represents  the  gal- 
vano-caustic  knife, 
as  adapted  by  Mr. 

Hall.  The  loop  of 
platina  is  seen  at  a . 

The  handle,  6,  is  of 
ivory,  containing 
two  channels  for  the  separate  conducting  wires,  d 


SURGICAL  APPLICATIONS. 


231 


is  a block  containing  two  screw  cups  for  the  battery 
Wires,  between  which  and  the  handle,  &,  are  two  very 
flexible  and  insulated  conductors,  to  give  scope  for 
the  freest  motion  to  the  hand  of  the  operator  ; e is  a 
slide,  by  which  the  current  can  be  connected  or  dis 
connected  with  the  loop  by  the  finger  of  the  oper- 
ator. 

366.  This  instrument  has  been  used  success- 
fully in  surgical  practice  in  Boston.  It  has  been 
found  by  experimenters  here  that  the  incandes- 
cent platina  cuts  through  bones  as  well  as  through 
the  soft  tissues ; and  it  carries  its  own  light  where 
the  operation  is  in  a deep  cavity.  It  is  important  to 
graduate  the  size  of  the  battery  to  the  size  of  the 
platina  wire,  and  to  the  operation  to  be  performed, 
in  order  to  have  a sufficiency  of  heat,  and  yet  not 
too  much,  or  at  any  rate  not  to  fuse  the  platina  wire. 

367.  The  battery  hitherto  usually  employed  has 
been  a Bunsen  battery  of  from  one  to  four  pairs. 
A battery  avoiding  the  use  of  nitric  acid  would  be 
better  if  it  can  be  obtained  of  sufficient  quantity 
without  being  too  cumbrous. 

368.  The  galvano-caustic  ligature,  as  made  by 
Mr.  Hall,  is  represented  in  Fig.  20.  Here  the  loop 
of  platina,  a , after  being  placed  over  a tumor,  can  be 
ignited,  and  then  drawn  tight  by  the  cross  handle,  &, 
so  as  to  burn  its  way  through  the  enclosed  tissues. 
The  current  is  thrown  on  or  off  by  means  of  the 
slide,  c,  as  in  the  previous  instrument.  The  flexible 
conductors  and  screw  cups  are  also  seen  in  the  same 
relative  position  as  in  Fig.  19.  A small  cauterizing 


232  SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER 

instrument  for  den- 
tists’ use  is  rep- 
resented at  e,  in 
Fig.  20.  The  loop 
should  be  more 
pointed  or  com- 
pressed than  in  the 
cut,  so  that  it  can 
be  introduced  into 
the  cavity  of  a tooth. 

The  battery  current 
is  connected  with 
the  coil  by  means  of 
a little  spring,  /, 
which  can  be  oper- 
ated by  one  finger. 

369.  In  pass- 
ing the  direct  cur- 
rent, of  from  four 
to  twelve  galvanic 
pairs,  through  the 
head,  in  an  applica- 
tion for  auditory  pa- 
ralysis, in  1849,  I 
found  that  a peculiar  faintness  and  loss  of  conscious- 
ness, more  or  less  complete,  was  induced ; and  I 
have  since  repeatedly  made  the  same  observation. 
Dr.  Edward  H.  Clarke,  in  making  the  same  applica- 
tion, obtained  the  result,  more  recently,  in  a single 
case,  of  complete  unconsciousness  and  insensibility, 
which  was  speedily  recovered  from  when  the  appli- 
cation was  suspended,  without  any  ill  result.  This 


PAINLESS  SURGERY. 


233 


suggests  the  use  of  the  galvanic  current  as  a gen- 
eral anaesthetic  agent. 

370.  The  numbing  effect  of  a rapid  succession 
of  electro-magnetic  shocks  is  a matter  of  com- 
mon experience.  Dr.  Parker,  of  Billerica,  informs 
me  that  in  two  cases  of  strangury  of  long  contin- 
uance, and  characterized  by  great  sensitiveness,  he 
succeeded  in  introducing,  with  little  pain  or  incon- 
venience, a catheter  enclosing  a conducting  wire, 
which  protruded  for  a short  distance  beyond  the  in- 
ner orifice  of  the  catheter,  and  which  conveyed  the 
electro-magnetic  shocks  to  the  sensitive  urethra. 
Dr.  Parker  also  states  that  he  has  been  able  to  com- 
press very  sensitive  boils,  with  slight  pain,  by  ap- 
plying, on  opposite  sides,  the  two  sponge  handles  con- 
nected with  an  electro-magnetic  instrument  in  action. 

371.  In  1857,  slight  but  rapid  electro-magnetic 
shocks  were  applied  by  my  friend,  Mr.  Moses 
G.  Farmer,  of  Salem,  by  means  of  a little  clamp 
handle,  directly  to  an  aching  tooth,  with  immediate 
and  entire  relief.  The  relief  in  neuralgia  is  some- 
times apparently  of  the  same  character. 

372.  All  these  anaesthetic  phenomena  are  of 
interest  in  connection  with  a still  more  recent 
discovery.  On  May  25,  1858,  a patent  was  issued 
to  Jerome  B.  Francis  of  Philadelphia,*  for  the  com- 
bination of  a dental  forceps  wdth  an  electro-mag- 
netic or  other  apparatus  for  generating  electricity 
for  the  extraction  of  teeth  without  pain. 


Assigned  to  James  J.  Clark. 
20* 


254  SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 

373.  In  this  important  application  of  elec- 
tricity to  the  production  of  local  anaesthesia,  the 
patient  grasps  one  handle,  preferably  the  positive, 
(§  70,)  of  the  electro-magnetic  apparatus  shown  in 
Fig.  3.  The  other  wire  is  connected  directly  with 
the  forceps  of  the  dentist,  which  grasps  the  tooth. 
The  electro-magnetic  apparatus  is  adjusted  and 
graduated  so  as  to  give  very  rapid  and  rather 
slight  shocks,  (§  24,  25.)  The  extraction,  under 
these  circumstances,  is  effected  without  pain  in 
most  cases,  the  external  and  internal  nerves  of  the 
tooth  being  paralyzed  by  the  current.  An  occa- 
sional cause  of  failure  is  the  contact  of  the  forceps 
with  the  lips,  cheek,  or  gums  of  the  patient.  It  is 
desirable,  for  the  sake  of  entire  security,  to  insulate 
all  parts  of  the  forceps  except  the  inside  of  its 
jaws,  where  they  grasp  the  tooth. 

374.  As  it  is  not  desirable  that  the  electro- 
magnetic shocks  should  pass  until  the  forceps  is  ad- 
justed on  the  tooth,  a key  (Fig.  21)  is  interposed 
between  the  electro- 
magnetic apparatus 
and  the  handle  held 
by  the  patient.  This 
interrupts  the  circuit, 
unless  the  knob  is 
pressed  down,  which 
may  be  done  by  the 
hand  or  foot  of  the 
operator,  or  by  the  pressure  of  his  person  against 
the  chair  or  table.  Where  it  is  to  be  depressed  by 


Fig.  21. 


PAINLESS  SURGERY. 


235 


the  foot,  it  may  be  made  like  a pedal.  The  key 
may  also  be  made  with  a spring  and  catch,  which 
last  is  disengaged  by  a slight  motion  of  the  oper- 
ator, and  which  then  closes  the  circuit  permanently 
until  the  tooth  is  extracted. 

375.  As  the  - sulphate  of 
copper  battery,  shown  also  in 
Fig.  3,  requires  frequent  clean- 
ing, the  Smee’s  battery,  of  large 
size  (Fig.  22)  is  preferable  for 
dentists’  use.  This  will  keep 
in  operation  several  weeks  or 
months  without  attention,  ex- 
cept to  add  water  to  compen- 
sate evaporation.  Z Z represent 
two  amalgamated  zinc  plates, 
between  which  a platinized  silver 
plate  is  suspended.  The  wires 
to  the  electro-magnetic  machine  proceed  from  the 
two  screw  cups  seen  in  the  figure.  The  containing 
vessel  is  glass,  and  the  fluid  used  is  water  acid- 
ulated with  from  one  tenth  to  one  twentieth  part 
of  sulphuric  acid. 

376.  A committee  of  the  Franklin  Institute 
of  Philadelphia  * reported,  April  8,  1858,  that  one 
hundred  and  sixty-four  teeth  had  been  extracted 
by  this  process  in  their  presence,  with  no  pain  in  a 
large  majority  of  cases  ; the  exceptions  being  where 
there  was  much  disease,  (the  forceps  probably  touch- 
ing the  gums.)  A member  of  the  committee,  Dr. 


Fig.  22. 


* American  Journal  of  Dental  Science,  July,  1858. 


236  SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 

W.  S.  Wilkinson,  reported  having  extracted  be- 
tween four  and  five  hundred  teeth  with  entire  suc- 
cess in  ninety-five  per  cent,  of  the  cases. 

377.  Many  anaesthetic  uses  will  suggest  them- 
selves in  connection  with  this  application.  A 
clamp  placed  upon  a tooth  during  the  process  of 
“filling”  might  be  effective  in  deadening  the  sensi- 
bility. Statements  have  been  made  already  of  the 
painless  opening  of  tumors  in  which  the  knife  was 
made  one  of  the  conductors  of  the  electro-magnetic 
apparatus.  Another  method  of  producing  an- 
aesthesia for  surgical  operations  is  that  employed  by 
Dr.  Parker,  (§370,)  in  which  the  torrent  of  elec- 
tro-magnetic shocks  is  passed,  by  means  of  sponge 
or  other  handles,  directly  through  the  part  to  be  oper- 
ated upon. 

378.  It  will  be  observed,  from  the  review 
which  has  thus  been  made  of  the  progress  of  elec- 
tro-medicine during  the  last  ten  years,  that  some 
new  applications  have  been  discovered,  and  some 
former  ones,  which  were  in  doubt,  have  been  con- 
firmed. Dr.  George  B.  Wood,  of  Philadelphia, 
gives  electricity  a place  among  diffusible  stimulants, 
in  an  elaborate  article  from  which  we  have  quoted, 
in  his  work  on  therapeutics  and  pharmacology. 
Even  this,  however,  will  not  cover  the  whole  ground. 
Electricity  is  entering,  year  by  year,  more  extensively 
into  medical  practice,  and  is  to  become  one  of  the 
most  universal  and  important  of  therapeutic  agents. 


Boston,  October,  1858. 


INDEX 


Absorption,  Promotion  of,, 

Albugo, 

Alterative  Action, 

Amaurosis, 

Amenorrhcea, 

Anaesthesia, 

Aneurism, 

Angina  Pectoris, 

Aphonia, 

Application  by  Plates, . . . . 
“ by  Touch,.... 

“ Length  of,.. . . 

“ Strength  of, . . 

Apoplexy, 

“ Caution  in, 

Articulation,  False, 

Articulations,  Swelled,. . . . 

Ascites, 

Asthma, 

“ Spasmodic, 

Atonic  States, 

Atrophy, 

Auditory  Paralysis, 

Back,  Weakness  of, 

Baldness, 

Bath,  Electric  Air, 

“ “ T?ve 


vv  ciiex,  • • < 

Battery,  Galvanic, 

Bronchitis, 

Calculus, 

Callus, 

Cancer, 

Capillary  Circulation, . . . 

Catalepsy, 

Cataract, 

Cauterization,  Galvanic,. 

Chlorosis, 

Cholera,  Asiatic, 

Chorea, 

Coagulation  of  Blood,.., 
Coldness  of  Extremities, 

Colic, 

Colica  Pictonum, 

Collapse, 

Conductors,  Surface-, . . . 
Congestion,  Use  in,...., 

Congestive  States, 

Constipation, 


Pa  ge. 

50 

185 

44,  48 

87 

68,  127,  130,  153 

85 

166 

123 

83 

34 

34 

45 

45,  58 

143 

57,  72,  78 

188 

187 

183 

116 

122 

86 

150 

93 

190 

152 

14 

35 

34 

15,  17,  19 

147 

190 

188 

178 

50 

128 

186 

192 

156 

104 

124 

167 

86 

136 

83 

103 

31 

51,  176 

102 

146 


238 


INDEX. 


Consumption, 

Contraction,  Organic, 

Convulsions, 

Cornea,  Opaque, . 

Counter  Irritation, 

Croup, 

Current,  Continuous, 

“ Direction  of, 

“ Galvanic, 

“ Induced, 

“ Interrupted, 

Cutaneous  Diseases, . . 

Deafness, 

“ Paralytic, 

Debility,  General, 

Diagnosis,  Electrical, 

Diaphragm,  Contraction  of, 

Difficult  Respiration, 

Digestion, 

Dilatation  of  Air-Cells, 

Direction  of  Current, 

Dislocations,  Spontaneous, 

Displacement  of  Uterus, 

Dropped  Hands, 

Dropsical  Effusions, 

Dropsy  of  Abdomen, 

“ of  Articulations, 

“ of  Scrotum, 

Drowning, 

Dyspepsia, 

Dysmenorrhoea, 

Dyspnoea, 

Electrical  Machine, 

Electric  and  Nervous  Currents, .... 

Electric  Currents,  Muscular, 

Electricity  of  Gymnotus, 

Electro-Magnetic  Apparatus, 

Electro-Puncture, 

Electro-Vital  Reaction, 

Emphysema, 

Enuresis  of  Children, 

Epilepsy, 

Erysipelas, 

Etherization  during  Electrification, 

“ Recovery  from, 

Excitability  by  Electricity, 

Exercise  of  Muscles, 

Exhaustion, 

“ in  Labor, 

Facial  Paralysis, 

Failures  in  Electric  Application, . . . 

Fainting, 

Fevers, 

Fever,  Intermittent, 

Fistula, 

Galvanic  Battery, 

Galvanism, 


Page. 

149 

53 

129 

185 

52 

148 

....12,  18,  60 
10,  41,  55,  59 

13,  44 

13,  18 

13,  18,  21,  60 

...151 

96 

93 

86 

46 

192 

123 

51,  145 

123 

10,  41,  55,  59 

189 

156 

63,  79 

182 

183 

183 

184 

97 

53,  145 

155 

123 

13 

10 

11 

4 

....15,  18,  27 

36 

9 

123 

81 

129 

..176 

40 

.....102 

61 

...53,  60,  188 

103 

165 

72 

16 

103 

137 

138 

178 

17,  19 

15,  60 


N D E X. 


239 


Page. 

Galvano-Puncture, 36 

Gangrene, . . 177 

Goitre, 182 

Gout, 142 

Handles, 31 

Headache,  Nervous, 114 

“ Sick, 115,147 

Heart,  Palpitation  of, 116 

Heartburn, 147 

Hemiplegia, 65,  69,  70,  77 

Hemorrhage, 151 

“ in  Labor, 157 

Hernia,  Strangulated, 191 

Herpes, 152 

Hiccup, 136 

Hip  Complaint, 180 

Hydrocele, 184 

Hydrophobia, 135 

Hypertrophy, 150 

Hysteria,.  * 115 

Hysterical  Paralysis, 67 

Incontinence  of  Urine, 81 

Inflammation  of  Ear, 94 

“ of  Lungs,...  . 148 

“ Use  of  Electricity  in, 51,  175 

Insensibility,  * * 85 

Insulating  Stool, 13 

Intensity,  Electro-Magnetic, 18 

Intermittent  Fever, 1 138 

Invagination  of  Intestine, 191 

Irritability,  Nervous, 115 

J ar,  Leyden,. 14 

Labor,  Electricity  in,.*. 157 

Larynx,  Inflammation  of, 147 

“ Obstruction  of, 192 

Laryngitis,  147 

Leucorrhoea,. 156 

Life  of  Nervous  System, 3 

“ of  Tissues, 3,  16 

Liver,  Enlarged, 151 

“ Torpid......... 143 

Lungs,  Inflammation  of,,. 148 

“ Secretion  of, 144 

Luxation,  Spontaneous, 189 

Machine  Electricity,....* 13 

Magneto-Electric  Apparatus, 28 

Menorrhagia, 156 

Menstruation, 51,  153 

Excessive,  156 

“ Painful...... 156 

Suppressed,  .*..*.... 153 

Mortification,.  177 

Moxa,  Galvanic,  .*...*..**. 38 

“ Insensible........ 39 

Mucous  Secretion,  143 

Muscles,  Exercise  of, .53,  60 

Muscular  Force,  Production  of, 6 

17* 


240 


INDEX. 


Pag*, 

Narcotism, 98 

Needles  for  Electro-Puncture, 36 

for  Moxa, 38 

Nervous  Current, 5,  41 

“ Headache, 114 

“ Irritability,... .115 

“ Power,  Nature  of, 4 

“ System, 16,41,59 

Neuralgia, 106 

“ of  Bladder, 114 

Neuralgic  Rheumatism, 114 

Night-Blindness, .93 

Nutritive  Influence  of  Electricity, 48 

(Esophagus,  Obstruction  of, 192 

Opacity  of  Cornea, 185 

Optic  Nerve,  Paralyzed, 87 

Organizing  Power, 16,  44 

Otorrhcea, 94 

Pain,  Condition  of, 114 

Painter’s  Colic, 83 

Palpitation  of  Heart, 116 

Paraplegia, 65,  71,  74 

Paralysis, 56 

“ Facial, 72,  77 

“ from  Local  Injury, 66 

“ Hysterical,. ...67 

“ Local, 67,  71 

“ of  Auditory  Nerve, 93 

“ of  Bladder, 80,  81 

“ of  Bowels, 81 

“ of  Optic  Nerve, 87 

“ of  Voice, 83 

“ Rheumatic, 64 

Paralytic  Contractions, 57,  84 

Peristaltic  Motion, 82 

Perspiration,  Suppressed, 145 

Pleurisy, 148 

Pneumonia, 148 

Poisoned  Wounds, 192 

Poisons,  Narcotic, 98 

Poles  of  Battery, 18 

Prolapsus  Ani, 192 

Propagation  of  Electric  Influence, 41,  59 

Prostration, 103 

Phthisis, 149 

Quantity,  and  Intensity, 12,  25 

“ Electro-Magnetic, 18,25 

Ramollisement,  Caution  in, 57 

Reactive  Power, 48 

Resuscitation, 96 

Revulsion, 52 

Rheumatic  Paralysis, 64 

“ Swellings, 141 

Rheumatism, 139 

“ Neuralgic, 114 

“ Periodic, 142 

Ringing  in  the  Ears, 96 


INDEX 


241 


Page. 

Rubefacient,  Electricity  as  a, 50,  52 

Rules  of  Application, 45 

Rupture, 191 

Salivary  Glands, 144 

Sarcocele, . 182 

Sciatica, 109 

Scrofulous  Ulcers, 179 

Secretion,  Influence  over, 49 

Sedative  Influence, .48 

Sensation,  Special,  excited  by  Galvanism, 9 

Shocks,  Electro-Magnetic, 44 

“ from  Jar, 14 

Skin,  Action  upon,... 50,  52 

Softening  of  Brain,  Caution  in, 57 

Solutions,  Conducting, 31,  33 

Sparks,  Electric, 14,  63,  79 

Spasm  of  Chest, 123 

Spasms, 135 

Spine,  Curvature  of, 190 

Sprains, 188 

Stammering, 136 

Stimulation  by  Electricity, 15,  44 

Stone  in  the  Bladder, 190 

Stool,  Insulating, ..«...« 13 

Strangulated  Hernia, 191 

St.  Yitus’s  Dance, 124 

Suspended  Animation, 96 

Syncope 103 

Syphilitic  Ulcers, 179 

Swelled  Articulations, 187 

Swellings,  Rheumatic, 141 

Tear  Glands, 145 

Tetanus, 132 

Throat,  Obstructions  in, 192 

‘ ‘ Secretion  of. 144 

Tic  Douloureux, 106 

Tinnitus  Aurium, 96 

Tumors, 181  • 

Typhoid  States, 102 

Typhus, 103 

Ulcers,  Simple, 177 

“ Scrofulous, 179 

“ Syphilitic, 179 

Urine,  Secretion  of, 145 

Uterine  Contraction, 157 

“ Displacement, 156 

“ Inertia, 161 

Varicose  Veins, 173 

Venesection, 193 

Vital  Agent, 5 

“ and  Electric  Action, 8 

“ Force, 3 

Vitalizing  Power  of  Electricity, 16,  44,  47 

Voice,  Paralysis  of, 83 

Wasting  of  Tissues, 150 

White  Swelling, 180 


INDEX  TO  SUPPLEMENTARY  CHAPTER. 

Action  of  Electricity  on  the  Skin, 225 

American  Instruments, 207 

Anaesthetic  Phenomena, 233 

Aphonia, 219 

Asthma, 222 

Battery  Currents  for  Bath,  * 215 

Becquerel,  M.  A.,  196 

Bunsen’s  Battery, 231 

Catalepsy 220 

Cholera,  224 

Clock-Work  Electronome, 204 

Coarse  Wire  Helix, . 208 

Constant  Battery, 202,  235 

Continuous  Quantity  Current,  . 206 

Croup, 220 

Directors, , . 209 

Duchenne,  M., 199 

Dysentery, ... .224 

Ear  Director, 210 

Electro-Magnetic  Currents,  ...... 201 

Electro-Medical  Application, 195 

Epilepsy,  220 

Foot  Board, ......234 

Galvanic  Belts, 216 

Galvano-Caustic  Knife,  230 

Galvano-Caustic  Ligature,  230 

Galvano-Cautery,  229 

Hall’s  Sponge  Cup, .212 

Hall’s  Universal  Directors, 213 

Hysteria,  . , 220 

Intensity, 197 

Leucorrhoea, 228 

Ligature  for  Dentists’  Use, ....232 

Local  Bath,  . ......  214 

Localized  Electricity, 226 

Magneto-Electric  Machine, 205 

• Manner  of  applying  Continuous  Current, 218 

Menstrual  Function, 200 

Nervous  Deafness, 217 

Nervous  Headache, 221 

Neuralgia, 220 

Ophthalmic  Inflammation, . 219 

Paralysis  of  Special  Sensation, 202 

Quantity, 197 

Rectum  Director, 210 

Reuhmkorff,  198 

Rheumatism,  222 

Rheumatic  Effusion, 223 

Scalp  Director,  210 

Scarlet  Fever, 224 

Sponge  Director,  211 

Switch  Board, 203 

Tongue  Director, 210 

Uterine  Contraction, 228 

Uterine  Ulceration, 229 

Vagina  Director, 211 

Vitality, 3 

Womb  Director, • 211 


(242) 


. 


■ 


HEFEHElsrCES. 


The  instruments  represented  in  this  catalogue  can  be  sent 
to  any  part  of  the  world  perfectly  safe,  with  cost  of  box 
and  packing  added  to  bill. 

The  following  are  a few  of  the  testimonials  we  have  re- 
ceived from  physicians  and  dentists  who  are  now  using  our 
improved  instruments. 

Mr.  Hall.  — This  may  certify  that  I have  used  your  improved 
Helix  and  Patent  Silver  Battery  most  thoroughly  for  some  time 
past,  alternating  the  work  with  several  others  which  are  in  daily 
use  in  my  office,  and  am  happy  to  say  that  I give  a decided  prefer- 
ence to  this  most  beautiful  and  effectual  new  machine,  for  the  par- 
ticular cases  and  purposes  to  which  it  is  adapted,  over  any  or  all 
others  that  I have  ever  used  or  seen  used  in  this  country  or  in 
Europe.  Yours  respectfully, 

ALFRED  C.  GARRATT. 

7 Hamilton  Place,  Boston,  June  25,  1859. 


Boston,  September,  1858. 

Messrs.  Palmer  & Hall.  — Gentlemen  : We  have  used  one  of 
your  Improved  Helix  for  the  past  three  months,  and  we  find  it 
works  admirably.  The  battery  has  been  in  constant  action  since 
we  first  set  it  up,  without  any  perceptible  change.  The  instrument 
runs  very  smooth  and  still,  which  is  a great  advantage  for  applying 
it  for  the  extraction  of  teeth. 

We  cordially  recommend  the  instruments  manufactured  by  you 
to  be  of  superior  workmanship  and  better  adapted  for  dentist  and 
and  physicians’  use,  than  any  other  instruments  we  have  seen. 

DR.  H.  I.  DANIELS, 

DR.  WM.  D.  BROWN,  Surgeon  Dentists , 
No.  17  Bedford  Street. 

(2) 


ILLUSTRATED  CATALOGUE 


EUCTRO-MEDICll  HOT  KITS, 

MANUFACTURED  AND  SOLD  BY 

THOMAS  HALL, 

(SUCCESSOR  TO  PALMER  & HALL,) 

ELECTRICIAN, 

MANUFACTURER  AND  IMPORTER  OF 

MAGNETIC  GALVANIC, 

ELECTRO-MEDICAL, 

AND 

TELEGRAPHIC  INSTRUMENTS. 


BOSTON,  MASS. 

No.  13  BROMFIELD  STREET. 
1860. 


\ 


PREFACE  TO  CATALOGUE. 


The  manufacturing  of  Magnetic  and  Galvanic  Instru- 
ments was  first  commenced  in  this  country  by  Mr.  Daniel 
Davis,  Jr.,  in  the  year  1836.  Previous  to  that  time,  all  the 
Galvanic  Instruments  used  in  this  country  were  imported 
from  Europe.  Mr.  Davis,  having  had  an  old  induction  coil 
to  repair,  saw  the  principle  upon  which  it  acted,  and  made 
one  for  amusement,  with  some  improvement  upon  the  one 
he  repaired.  He  found  a ready  sale  for  it.  This  induced 
him  to  engage  in  the  manufacture  of  them.  At  that  time 
they  were  very  rough  and  inconvenient  instruments,  com- 
pared with  those  we  now  make.  They  were  very  seldom 
used  for  medical  purposes.  The  mode  of  breaking  the  cur- 
rent was  by  means  of  a ratchet  placed  on  the  top  or  by  the 
side  of  the  coil.  This  was  a great  objection  to  them  for 
medical  purposes,  as  the  shocks  came  very  irregularly;  this 
was  remedied  by  the  invention  and  adoption  of  the  vibrat- 
ing armatures  in  connection  with  the  secondary  coils  con- 
trived by  Mr.  Davis.  It  is  now  universally  used  for  this 
purpose  both  in  this  country  and  Europe.  By  this  in- 
genious arrangement  the  instruments  are  self-operating,  and 
the  current  is  extremely  fine.  Making  induction  coils  led 
to  making  models  for  motive  power,  and  various  pieces 
of  apparatus  to  illustrate  galvanism  and  electro-magnetism. 
The  adoption  of  this  branch  of  physical  science  in  our  col- 
leges and  schools  created  a constant  demand  for  this  class 
of  instruments,  so  that  we  now  manufacture  over  five  hun- 
dred distinct  instruments  adapted  to  this  branch  of  studies. 


PREFACE  TO  CATALOGUE. 


For  several  years  they  were  used  only  for  illustrating  the 
principles  of  galvanism,  &c.,  there  not  being  any  practical 
use  for  them  except  being  occasionally  used  for  medical  pur- 
poses. Like  most  new  theories  in  medical  science,  this  agent 
was  extremely  slow  in  coming  into  use  among  the  medical 
profession.  One  of  the  greatest  obstacles  in  the  way  of  this 
agent  was,  that  there  were  no  books  on  this  subject  whereby 
a physician  could  inform  himself  how  to  apply  electricity  to 
various  diseases.  This  defect  is  remedied  now  to  a great 
extent;  there  are  some  very  valuable  works  on  medical 
electricity,  by  some  of  the  first  physicians  in  Europe  and 
America.  Among  the  most  prominent  stand  the  names  of 
Golding  Bird,  of  England,  M.  Duchenne  and  M.  Becquerel, 
of  France,  Middeldorpf,  of  Germany,  and  Dr.  W.  F.  Chan- 
ning,  of  this  city.  This  last  gentleman  has  paid  especial 
attention  to  electricity  as  a therapeutic  agent,  having  con- 
structed and  devised  a great  many  new  and  useful  instru- 
ments-in  this  department.  We  are  greatly  indebted  to  him 
for  his  suggestions  and  advice  in  the  construction  of  the 
various  instruments  described  in  the  following  catalogue. 
Many  of  them,  and  the  manner  of  applying  them,  are 
original  with  him. 

Having  been  engaged  with  Mr.  Davis  in  the  manufacture 
of  these  instruments  from  1840  until  his  retirement  from 
business  in  1849,  and  subsequently  successor  to  him  in  the 
firm  of  Palmer  & Hall,  until  1857  ; having  had  eighteen 
years’  experience,  and  possessing  great  facilities  and  con- 
veniences for  the  manufacture  of  instruments  in  this  line, — 
it  is  my  intention  that  no  efforts  on  my  part  shall  be  want- 
ing to  sustain  the  previous  high  reputation  of  these  instru- 
ments, or  to  render  them  unsurpassed  by  those  of  any  other 
maker. 


THOMAS  HALL. 


HALL’S  CATALOGUE 


Persons  ordering  will  please  state  the  number  and  price 
of  instruments. 

All  instruments  carefully  packed  and  warranted,  with 
cost  of  box  added  to  bill. 


INSTRUMENTS. 

No.  1.  Single  Coil  Instrument,  in  black  walnut  box, 
with  draw  to  contain  directors,  wire,  &c.,  large  size,  de- 


Fig.  1. 


2 


hall’s  catalogue 


signed  for  physicians’  use,  containing  ground  stopple  bottles 
for  solutions.  This  instrument  is  thoroughly  made,  and 
beautifully  finished.  Price,  $20.00. 

No.  2.  Double.  Coil  Instrument,  same  size  as  Fig.  1, 
with  the  addition  of  a quantity  coil  and  graduated  battery. 
Price,  $25.00. 

No.  3.  Same  size  as  Fig.  1,  silver  plated.  Price,  $25. 

No.  4.  Double  Coil  Instrument,  silver  plated.  $30.00. 


Fig.  5. 


No.  5.  Dr.  Page’s  Portable  Battery.  This  is  very 
powerful  for  its  size.  It  is  contained  in  a black  walnut 
box,  5 inches  high,  7 wide,  and  9 long.  It  consists  of  coil, 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS. 


3 


5 inches  long  and  two  inches  in  diameter,  with  square 
battery,  handles,  and  flexible  wires.  Price,  $12.00. 

Directions.  — 1.  Connect  the  wires  as  represented  in 
the  cut. 

2.  The  solution  to  be  used  in  this  battery,  is  one  of  sul- 
phate of  copper,  (blue  vitriol,)  containing  about  two  ounces 
of  blue  vitriol  to  a pint  of  water.  To  prepare  it,  a saturated 
solution  is  first  made,  and  to  this  solution  is  then  added  as 
much  more  water. 

3.  Th6  zinc  plate  becomes  coated  in  the  battery,  so  that 
it  is  necessary  to  clean  it  after  using  it,  whenever  the  metal 
has  become  thickly  furred.  The  coating  should  be  removed 
each  time,  so  as  to  expose  again  the  bright  surface  of  the 
zinc. 

4.  If  the  electro-magnetic  apparatus  will  not  operate,  see 
first  if  any  spark  is  perceptible  on  rubbing  the  extremities 
of  the  wires  from  the  battery  together.  If  not,  the  battery 
is  in  fault.  This  may  be  owing  to  a sediment  of  copper  at 
the  bottom  of  the  battery,  making  a connection  between  the 
zinc  and  copper,  or  to  the  zinc  being  somewhere  in  metallic 
contact  with  the  copper ; or  it  may  be  owing  to  the  foulness 
of  the  zinc  plate,  or  to  the  weakness  of  the  copper  solution, 
which  in  that  case  will  have  lost  its  color. 

5.  A bundle  of  iron  wires  is  shown  in  the  cut  within  the 
inner  helix.  This  can  be  removed  at  pleasure,  and  the 
shock  thus  regulated. 

6.  The  positive  pole  may  be  determined  from  the  nega- 
tive by  taking  the  handle-directors  in  the  hands,  the  negative 
always  being  felt  the  most  sensibly. 


4 


hall’s  catalogue 


Fig.  0. 


No.  6.  Coii  and  Battery,  in  box,  for  family  use.  A 
very  convenient  form,  including  handles  and  wire.  Price, 
$10.00. 


Fig.  7. 


No.  7.  Double  Helix  and  Vibrating  Electrotome,  with 
battery  and  handles.  Neatly  mounted  on  rosewood  base. 
Price,  $8,  $10,  and  $12.00. 

No.  8.  Small  Coil,  in  neat  rosewood  box,  with  battery 
and  handles.  Price,  $8.00. 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS. 


5 


No.  9.  Compound  Electrotome  with  Clockwork.  This 
is  a very  powerful  instrument,  and  is  used  principally  to 
illustrate  the  induction  current  in  colleges  and  medical 
schools.  Price,  $20.00. 

No.  10.  Horizontal  Compound  Electrotome.  This  is 
the  same  as  Fig.  9,  with  the  exception  of  being  horizontal. 
The  current  is  broken  by  clockwork,  attached  to  wires  dip- 
1* 


fi  hall’s  catalogue 


ping  into  mercury  cups.  When  the  battery  is  connected, 
there  is  a bright  spark  in  the  glass  cup,  sufficient  to  light 
up  a small  room.  Price,  $20.00. 

No.  11.  This  instrument  is  enclosed  in  a black  walnut 
box,  with  handles,  battery,  and  wires.  The  battery  is  com- 
posed of  zinc  and  platinum,  and  is  excited  with  sulphuric 
acid.  The  instrument  is  entirely  enclosed  from  the  battery, 
so  as  to  avoid  all  fumes  and  dirt  arising  from  the  battery. 
This  battery  needs  no  cleaning,  being  always  ready  for 
action.  Price,  $14.00. 

Instruments  used  for  the  application  of  Galvanism  in  the 
Extraction  of  Teeth. 

No.  12,  Represents  helix,  with  handles  and  wires  com- 
plete. In  order  to  operate  the  instrument,  connect  the 
short  wires  as  represented  in  the  figure.  Connect  the  flexi- 
ble wires  with  the  cups  at  the  end  of  the  helix  marked  P 
and  N.  Attach  the  handle  to  the  wire  connected  with  the 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS. 


7 


Fig.  12. 


cup  marked  P.  Attack  the  wire  connected  with  the  cup 
marked  N to  the  forceps ; this  can  he  done  by  drilling  a 
hole  in  the  handle  of  the  forceps,  and  inserting  the  end  of 
the  wire  so  as  to  make  good  connection.  The  current  is 
graduated  by  removing  the  regulator  from  the  centre  of  the 
helix.  Care  should  be  taken  to  insulate  the  gums  and 
cheek  from  the  forceps,  so  as  to  cause  the  whole  current  to 
go  direct  to  the  tooth:  a slight  current  has  been  found  the 
best  to  produce  the  desired  effect. 


Fig.  13 


8 


hall’s  catalogue 


No.  18,  Represents  the  best  battery  for  this  purpose, 
as  it  is  a constant  battery,  always  ready  for  use,  and  re- 
quires little  care  in  its  management,  the  zinc  plates  not 
requiring  any  cleaning.  It  consists  of  amalgamated  zinc 
and  platinum,  with  sulphuric  acid  and  water ; for  a solution, 
about  one  twentieth  acid  to  water.  Care  should  be  taken  to 
keep  the  zinc  plates  well  coated  with  mercury,  as  that  pre- 
vents the  acid  from  acting  on  the  zincs  only  when  in  use. 
They  should  be  amalgamated  once  a month,  if  used  con- 
stantly. To  amalgamate  the  zincs,  clean  them  well  with  a 
strong  solution  of  sulphuric  acid  and  water,  then  rub  them 
in  a dish  of  quicksilver,  rubbing  it  on  with  an  old  tooth 
brush.  See  that  the  zincs  are  well  coated  with  mercury,  as 
the  action  of  the  battery  depends  a great  deal  on  the  amal- 
gamation. Do  not  let  the  platinum  plate  touch  the  zincs, 
as  that  would  stop  the  action  of  the  battery.  Disconnect 
the  battery  from  the  instrument  when  not  in  use. 

This  battery  is  peculiarly  adapted  to  dentists’  use,  as  it  is 
always  ready,  day  and  night,  and  there  is  no  cleaning  of  the 
zincs,  as  in  the  sulphate  of  copper  batteries.  It  is  also  the 
battery  used  by  dentists  for  gilding  their  plates.* 


No.  14,  Represents  a footboard,  for  letting  the  current 
on  the  forceps  by  the  foot  or  hand,  a very  convenient 

* See  Hall’s  Instructions  for  Electro-Gilding  and  Silvering. 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS. 


9 


method  of  operating,  as  you  need  no  assistant.  This  is 
connected  by  the  wire  in  between  the  instrument  and  the 
handle  which  the  patient  holds.  By  pressing  the  spring 
down  it  closes  the  circuit.  By  releasing  the  pressure  the 
current  is  broken.  By  this  arrangement  you  can  let  the 
current  on  at  pleasure. 

Dentists’  set  complete,  including  battery,  helix,  footboard, 
wires,  and  handles.  Price,  $12.00. 


Fig.  15. 


No.  15.  Hall’s  Improved  Compound  Magnetic  Instru- 
ment, producing  a constant  current.  For  Rheumatic  and 
Nervous  Diseases.* 

In  offering  this  instrument  to  the  public,  we  would  call 
their  attention  to  the  following  advantages  over  all  others 
now  in  use. 

This  instrument  is  arranged  with  a Pole  Changer,  so  that 
* An  application  for  a patent  has  been  made. 


10 


hall’s  catalogue 


you  can  determine  which  is  the  positive  or  negative  pole, 
(the  negative  pole  being  the  strongest,)  which  is  very  essen- 
tial to  know  in  applying  it  for  diseases.  The  coils  revolve 
without  belt  or  band,  so  that  it  cannot  get  out  of  order. 
Having  a magnet  at  each  end  of  the  coils,  we  get  a very 
powerful  current,  which  can  be  controlled  by  the  U arma- 
ture. Shocks  can  be  obtained  by  turning  the  crank  either 
way.  The  changing  of  the  positive  or  negative  pole  in  the 
conductors  depends  upon  the  direction  in  which  the  crank  is 
turned.  This  instrument  is  thoroughly  made,  and  warranted 
to  keep  in  order  for  years  if  carefully  used.  Price,  $10.00. 

Directions.  — Connect  the  conducting  wires,  with  the 
sockets  at  the  end  of  the  box,  screw  the  crank  on  the  wheel- 
shaft,  and  turn  slowly,  as  the  current  depends  upon  the 
velocity  with  which  coils  revolve ; the  greater  the  speed, 
the  more  powerful  the  shocks  will  be  received.  By  putting 
a piece  of  wet  sponge  in  the  ends  of  the  conductors,  the 
shock  will  be  more  pleasant,  as  the  sponge  spreads  upon  a 


Fig.  16, 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS.  11 

larger  surface  of  the  skin,  and  obviates  that  pricking  sen- 
sation which  is  so  unpleasant.  In  applying  it,  hold  the  con- 
ductor in  one  hand,  and  apply  the  other  to  the  part  affected. 
To  produce-  a constant  current,  pull  the  lever  at  the  end 
of  the  box, 

m 

No.  16.  Large  size  Magneto-Electric  Machine,  for  hos- 
pitals and  institutions.  The  advantages  that  this  instrument 
possesses  over  the  induction  coils  is,  that  there  is  no  battery ; 
it  is  always  ready ; by  turning  the  crank  you  produce  a cur- 
rent. This  is  used  very  extensively  in  Europe,  but  we  do 
not  think  it  gives  so  steady  a current  as  the  instruments 
worked  with  the  battery.  Price,  $50.00. 


Pig.  17. 


No.  17.  Medium  size  Magneto-Electric  Machine,  in 
box,  suitable  for  a physician’s  office.  Price,  $35.00. 


12 


hall’s  catalogue 


Fig.  18. 


No.  18.  Magneto-Electric  Machine,  without  box,  neat- 
ly mounted  on  rosewood  base.  Price,  $25.00. 

No.  19.  Magneto-Electric  Machine,  with  Single  Magnet. 
This  is  intended  for  institutions.  Price,  $30.00. 

No.  20.  Largest  Size,  run  with  Clockwork,  with  four 
coils,  producing  quantity  and  intensity  at  the  same  time. 
Double  Compound  Magnets.  Well  made  and  finished. 
Price,  $100.00. 


Fig.  21. 


No.  21.  A Series  of  Twelve  Grove’s  Battery,  in  box. 
We  consider  this  battery  the  best  for  the  electro-chemical 
baths.  It  consists  of  amalgamated  zinc  and  platinum, 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS. 


13 


excited  with  sulphuric  and  nitric  acid.  It  is  a very  intense 
battery.  From  twelve  to  fifteen  cups  is  the  best  number  to 
each  tub.  Price,  per  cup,  $2.00. 

Directions.  — Fill  the  glass  jars  with  water  within  one 
and  a half  inches  of  the  top ; then  add  one  half  ounce  of 
sulphuric  acid ; stir  it  up  well  with  a stick ; set  the  zinc  in 
the  jar,  and  the  earthen  or  porous  cup  in  the  zinc ; fill  the 
porous  cup  with  nitric  acid  within  one  half  an  inch  of  the 
top  ; place  each  platinum  strip  in  the  nitric  acid,  or  porous 
cup,  as  shown  in  the  cut  above ; connect  wires  with  each 
end  of  the  battery,  then  touch  the  ends  of  the  wires  to- 
gether, — if  there  is  a spark,  the  battery  is  in  good  order. 

Care  should  be  taken  to  keep  the  zincs  well  coated  with 
mercury,  as  that  prevents  the  acid  acting  on  the  zinc  only 
when  in  use.  They  should  be  amalgamated  once  a week 
if  used  constantly.  To  amalgamate  the  zincs,  you  clean 
them  well  with  a strong  solution  of  sulphuric  acid  and 
water,  then  rub  them  in  a dish  of  quicksilver,  — put  it  on 
with  a brush.  See  that  the  zincs  are  well  covered  with 
mercury,  as  the  action  of  the  battery  depends  a great  deal 
on  the  amalgamation. 

This  battery  will  work  from  eight  to  ten  hours  with  a 
constant  current.  It  is  best  to  soak  the  porous  cups  in 
water  after  using,  as  it  frees  them  from  the  old  acid. 

No.  22.  A Series  of  Twelve  Smee’s  Batteries,  in  box. 
Consisting  of  amalgamated  zinc  and  platinum,  excited  with 
Sulphuric  acid.  This  is  applied  directly  to  the  patient  by 
means  of  directors.  Price,  $24.00. 

No.  23.  Ilalfs  Improved  Constant  Battery,  composed 
of  copper  and  zinc,  excited  by  sulphate  of  copper.  The 
zinc  is  placed  in  the  centre  of  a porous  cup,  filled  with 
water.  The  porous  cup  is  placed  within  a cylinder  of  sheet 
copper,  surrounded  with  crystals  of  sulphate  of  copper,  set 
within  a glass  jar.  Fitted  in  boxes  of  ten  cups  each. 


14 


hall’s  catalogue 


Fig.  23. 


The  advantage  of  this  battery  as  a medical  agent  is  very 
great,  as  it  will  remain  in  constant  action  from  nine  months 
to  a year  without  replacing,  except  with  water,  to  replace 
that  which  has  evaporated.  Price,  per  cup,  $1.25. 


No.  24.  Manipulator.  This  is  a very  ingenious  instru- 
ment, contrived  by  Dr.  William  F.  Channing,  for  bringing 
any  number  of  batteries  into  circuit  at  pleasure  from  one 
to  one  hundred  cups.  It  is  arranged  with  a pole-changer, 
break-piece,  key,  and  clock-work  electrotome.  This  is  a very 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS.  15 

desirable  instrument,  when  the  constant  current  is  used,  as 
it  places  the  battery  in  perfect  control  of  the  operator. 
Price,  100  cups,  $50.00 ; 50  cups,  $40.00  ; 30  cups,  $30.00 ; 
20  cups,  $15.00;  15  cups,  $10.00. 

No.  25.  Improved  Electro-Surgical  Instrument.  Loop 
Ligature.  This  is  arranged  so  as  to  let  the  current  on  by 
merely  pushing  the  knob,  after  placing  the  loop  in  the  right 


Fig.  25. 


16 


hall’s  catalogue 


/ 


position.  The  battery  current  is  produced  by  four  cups  of 
Bunsen’s  battery,  composed  of  zinc  and  carbon,  giving  a 
powerful  quantity  current.  It  is  let  on  to  the  instrument 
by  means  of  large  flexible  wires.  Price,  $8.00. 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS. 


1 7 


No.  26.  Directors  for  Destroying  the  Nerves  of  Teeth, 
by  means  of  red  hot  platina  wire.  Price,  $3.00. 

No.  27.  The  same  as  No.  25,  with  the  exception  of 
lancet  instead  loop.  Price,  $8.00. 


Fig.  28. 


Fig.  29. 


No.  28.  Small  Sulphate  Copper  Battery.  Price,  $2.00. 
No.  29.  Showing  a section  of  Fig.  28.  C C copper, 
Z zinc,  the  solution  as  composed  of  sulphate  of  copper, 
about  one  ounce  to  a pint  of  water. 


No.  30. 
Price,  $5.00. 

2* 


Fig.  30. 

Medium  Size  Sulphate  Copper  Battery. 


18 


hall’s  catalogue 


Fig.  31. 


No.  31.  Daniels’s  Protected  Battery.  The  difference 
between  this  and  Fig.  30  is,  that  the  zinc  cylinder  is  pro- 
tected by  a porous  cup.  By  this  arrangement  the  battery 
is  more  constant,  and  will  remain  in  action  for  several  days, 
but  is  not  so  powerful.  Price,  $2.00. 

No.  32.  Large  Size  ditto.  Price,  $4.00. 


Fig.  33. 


No.  33.  Smee’s  Constant  Battery.  This  is  composed 
of  zinc  and  platinized  silver,  sulphuric  acid  and  water,  for 
solution.  It  is  very  constant,  and  will  remain  in  action  for 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS. 


19 


several  months.  This  for  an  office  battery  is  decidedly  pref- 
erable over  all  others,  as  it  is  less  expensive  to  work,  and 
less  trouble.  Price,  1 quart  jars,  $2.50;  3 quart  jars,  $3.50. 


No.  34.  Directors  for  the  Hand.  German  silver,  with 
insulated  handle.  Price,  per  pair,  $2.00. 

No.  35.  German  Silver  Handle.  Per  pair,  $1.25. 

No.  36.  Silver  Plated  Surface  Director,  with  insulated 
handle.  Per  pair,  $2.00. 

No.  37.  Sponge  Director,  with  glass  handle.  75  cents. 


20 


hall’s  catalogue 


No.  38.  Ear  Director,  silver  plated,  with  insulated  han- 
dles. Price,  75  cents. 

No.  39.  Rectum  ditto.  75  cents. 

No.  40.  Tongue  ditto.  75  cents. 

No.  41.  Scalp  ditto.  $1.25. 


No.  42.  Flat  Sponge  Director,  with  long  insulated  han- 
dle. This  is  very  convenient,  as  you  can  apply  it  without 
disrobing  the  patient.  Price,  $1.25. 

No.  43.  Womb  Director,  with  insulated  handle.  Price, 


$1.25. 

No.  44.  Ditto,  with  glass  handle.  $1.25. 

No.  45.  Vagina  Director,  silver  plated.  Price,  $1.25, 
and  $1.50. 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS. 


21 


No.  46.  Dr.  Channing’s  Eye  Glass.  75  cents. 


Fig.  47. 

No.  47.  Metallic  Slipper  for  the  Feet.  $1.25  per  pair. 


Fig.  48. 

No.  48.  Hall’s  Hard  Rubber  Sponge  Cup.  This  is 
used  by  placing  the  hemisphere  in  the  palm  of  the  hand, 


09 


hall’s  catalogue 


and  letting  the  knob  project  through  the  fingers.  The 
sponge  is  fastened  in  the  cup  by  a spring.  By  this  arrange- 
ment the  sponge  can  be  taken  out  of  the  cup  and  washed, 
which  is  very  desirable.  Price,  without  sponge,  75  cents; 
with  sponge,  $1.37. 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS. 


23 


No.  49.  Hall’s  Universal  Handle,  embracing  the  Tongue, 
Ear,  Eye,  Rectum,  Sponge,  Womb,  and  Vagina  Directors. 
Silver  plated.  By  this  arrangement,  all  the  directors  are 
fitted  to  one  handle.  They  can  be  fitted  in  the  draw  of  the 
instrument,  and  take  up  but  little  room.  Price,  $5.00. 
Neatly  fitted  in  box,  $6.00. 

The  above  directors  should  be  covered  with  cotton  flannel, 
moistened  with  water,  when  in  use,  as  this  will  prevent 
that  burning  sensation  so  disagreeable  to  patients. 


No.  50.  Tie  Connecting  Cups,  for  joining  two  wires. 
Price,  25  cents. 


No.  51.  Screw  Connecting  Cups.  Price,  17  cents. 


24 


II ALLS  CATALOGUE, 


No.  52.  Screw  Cups.  Price,  17  cents. 


Fig,  53. 


No.  53.  Galvanometers,  for  testing  various  galvanic 
currents.  Price,  $10.00  to  $35.00. 

No.  54.  Vertical  Calvanometer,  in  case,  for  office  use. 
Price,  $15.00. 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS. 


25 


Fig.  58. 


No.  55.  Hall’s  Patent  Constant  Battery  for  Extracting 
Teeth  without  pain.  Represents  the  instrument  complete 
in  box.  Price,  $12.00. 

3 


26 


hall’s  catalogue 


No.  56.  The  forceps,  and  manner  of  connecting  them 
with  the  footboard  and  handles. 

No.  57.  Hall’s  Improved  Footboard.  This  is  a break- 
current  footboard.  Its  operation  is  exactly  opposite  to  the 
common  arrangement  for  this  purpose.  When  the  foot  is 
on  the  board,  there  is  no  current;  the  moment  the  foot  is 
raised,  the  spring  touches  the  upper  connection,  and  closes 
the  current.  By  this  arrangement  the  operator  is  not 
obliged  to  stand  in  one  position,  but  can  walk  all  round  the 
chair,  and  still  have  the  current  on  the  tooth. 

No.  58.  German  Silver  Handles,  which  the  patient 
holds  in  the  hand.  The  conducting  cord  which  leads  from 
the  footboard  to  the  forceps  is  forked  so  that  it  can  be  con- 
nected with  both  handles  of  the  forceps,  which  is  sure  to 
make  good  connection  at  the  ends  of  the  cords.  It  is  fast- 
ened by  two  pieces  of  rubber.  The  current  is  graduated 
by  removing  the  regulator  from  the  centre  of  the  helix. 
Care  should  be  taken  to  insulate  the  gums  and  cheek  from 
the  forceps,  so  as  to  cause  the  whole  of  the  current  to  go  to 
the  tooth.  A slight  current  is  found  best  to  produce  the 
desired  effect. 

No.  59.  Hall’s  Compound  Constant  Battery,  combining 
two  currents,  the  primary  and  secondary.  Patented  June 
21,  1859.  Price,  $12.00. 

For  remedial  purposes,  designed  for  physicians’  and  den- 
tists’ use,  this  is  a decided  improvement  over  all  other  in- 
struments for  the  application  of  electricity  as  a therapeutic 
and  anaesthetic  agent,  as  it  is  constantly,  ready  for  operation, 
and  requires  no  cleaning  of  the  zinc  plates  as  in  other  bat- 
teries. It  will  remain  in  action  some  two  or  three  months 
without  adding  new  solution.  It  can  be  operated  with  the 
box  closed,  thereby  preventing  the  noise  of  the  armature  to 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS. 


27 


escape.  It  is  also  portable,  and  well  made  in  every  respect. 
This  instrument  is  now  being  used  by  some  of  the  first 
physicians  and  surgeon  dentists  in  the  country,  who  have 
very  kindly  permitted  me  to  refer  to  them  in  regard  to  its 
merits. 


28 


hall’s  catalogue 


This  instrument  is  arranged  to  produce  two  currents,  the 
primary  and  secondary . Both  the  currents  are  combined 
in  the  same  instrument,  and  can  be  brought  to  bear  on  the 
directors  by  merely  moving  a lever  or  switch,  without  dis- 
connecting the  conducting  wires.  The  primary  current  is 
that  which  comes  direct  from  the  battery  through  the  coarse 
wire  of  the  helix,  consequently  is  in  one  direction.  When 
the  battery  current  is  made  to  flow  through  the  body  there 
is  at  its  commencement  a greater  or  less  convulsion  of  the 
muscles  of  the  part  interposed,  though  its  continued  passage 
may  be  nearly  insensible,  and  is  recommended  where  it  is 
desirable  to  exercise  an  organizing  power  over  the  muscles, 
also  for  various  internal  diseases. 

The  secondary,  or  interrupted  current,  is  of  high  intensi- 
ty, and  of  small  quantity,  and  proceeds  from  the  fine  wire, 
(which  surrounds  the  coarse  wire,)  which  is  induced  from 
the  battery  current  flowing  through  the  coarse  wire,  and  is 
used  for  rheumatic  and  nervous  diseases.  This  instrument 
is  so  constructed  that  it  can  be  operated  with  the  box  shut, 
thereby  preventing  the  noise  from  the  vibrating  armature, 
and  also  keeping  the  instrument  free  from  dust. 

This  instrument  is  complete  in  black  walnut  boxes,  in- 
cluding Hall’s  India  Rubber  Flexible  Conducting  Cords 
and  German  Silver  Directors.  They  can  be  sent  by  ex- 
press to  any  part  of  the  United  States  or  the  Canadas.* 

Directions.  — 1.  Raise  the  zincs  out  of  the  box,  then 
fill  the  glass  vessel  within  one  inch  and  a half  of  the  top 
with  water ; then  add  one  ounce  (or  two  table  spoonfuls) 
of  common  sulphuric  acid,  replace  the  zincs  in  this  solution, 

* For  full  directions  for  operating  in  different  diseases,  see  Dr.  W.  F. 
Channing’s  Medical  Electricity,  fifth  and  enlarged  edition,  published  by 
Thomas  Hall.  Price,  75  cents. 


OF  ELECTRO  MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS. 


29 


connect  the  brass  strap  with  the  brass  post  opposite,  by 
crowding  the  pin  in  the  hole,  being  sure  that  it  makes  good 
contact. 

2.  Move  the  lever  or  switch  marked  B,  on  the  post  oppo- 
site ; this  brings  the  battery  in  connection  with  the  instru- 
ment, which  will  instantly  vibrate  the  armature.  It  is  well 
to  give  the  armature  an  impulse  with  the  finger  if  it  does 
not  start  of  its  own  accord. 

Disconnect  the  battery  by  removing  the  switch  from  the 
post  when  not  in  use,  as  the  zincs  are  only  in  action  when 
the  lever  is  on  the  post. 

3.  The  battery  consists  of  amalgamated  zincs  and  plati- 
num. The  zincs  are  prepared  with  mercury,  being  first  im- 
mersed in  a solution  of  sulphuric  acid  and  water,  about  one 
tenth  acid  to  water.  This  solution  thoroughly  cleans  the 
zincs,  so  that  the  mercury  amalgamates  with  them.  It  is 
well  to  rub  the  mercury  on  with  a piece  of  cloth  or  an  old 
toothbrush.  Care  should  be  taken  to  keep  the  plates  well 
coated  with  mercury,  as  the  action  of  the  battery  depends 
greatly  on  the  amalgamation  of  the  zincs. 

Do  not  let  the  platinum  or  centre  plates  touch  the  zincs, 
as  this  would  stop  the  action  of  the  battery.  The  battery 
is  ready  for  use,  having  been  amalgamated  previous  to  sell- 
ing, but  it  would  be  as  well  to  reamalgamate  them  after  a 
week’s  use,  as  the  mercury  does  not  thoroughly  penetrate 
the  zincs  the  first  time  amalgamated. 

4.  Connect  the  directors  to  the  flexible  rubber  cords  by 
means  of  the  screws,  pass  the  other  ends  through  the  eye- 
lets of  the  box,  and  connect  them  with  the  screws  marked 
P and  N,  representing  the  positive  and  negative  poles  of 
the  battery.  By  this  arrangement  you  can  shut  the  box 
entirely  up,  and  still  operate. 

3* 


30 


hall’s  catalogue. 


5.  If,  after  using  it  some  time,  and  the  current  grows 
weak  and  feeble,  look  at  the  zinc  plates,  — if  they  look 
black,  they  need  reamalgamating,  if  they  are  bright  and 
well  coated  with  mercury,  the  solution  must  be  at  fault. 
Throw  it  away  and  prepare  new,  and  the  instrument  will 
operate  with  renewed  vigor. 

6.  After  having  seen  that  the  zincs  are  in  order,  and  the 
solution  being  made  according  to  directions,  and  the  instru- 
ment still  refuses  to  operate,  the  fault  must  be  in  the  vibrat- 
ing armature,  which  is  placed  under  the  arch  of  brass ; this 
must  be  adjusted  so  that  the  iron  hammer  is  about  a six- 
teenth of  an  inch  from  the  face  of  the  magnet,  then  screw 
the  spiral  spring  down  so  as  to  just  touch  the  flat  spring, 
then  tighten  the  screw  by  the  lower  nut,  and  there  will  be 
no  difficulty  in  the  instrument’s  operating. 

7.  The  current  is  regulated  by  the  brass  rod  drawn  out 
of  the  large  eyelet  hole.  When  it  is  entirely  out,  there  is 
no  perceptible  current  ; as  you  insert  the  rod,  it  increases 
the  current  until  it  is  entirely  in,  then  the  instrument  is  at 
its  full  strength. 

8.  The  manner  of  bringing  the  secondary  and  primary 
currents  to  connect  with  the  directors  or  cords,  is  done,  by  a 
switch  on  the  base  of  the  instrument.  When  the  switch  is 
on  the  knob  of  brass  marked  S,  you  get  the  secondary  cur- 
rent, (which  is  very  powerful ;)  when  on  the  knob  marked 
P,  the  positive  current  is  in  connection.  The  different  cur- 
rents are  changed  in  our  instrument  by  merely  moving  the 
switch  from  one  knob  to  the  other. 

No.  60.  Represents  the  manner  of  applying  electricity  to 
the  footbath. 

No.  61.  Represents  the  form  and  construction  of  the 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS. 


31 


Fig.  61. 


mounted  plate  machines  for  the  production  of  statical  or  fric- 
tional electricity  from  a plate  16  by  24  inches  in  diameter. 
The  base  is  of  mahogany,  supporting  fonr  glass  pillars, 


32 


hall’s  catalogue 


mounted  with  brass  bases  and  caps ; the  axle  of  the  plate 
revolves  in  brass  balls  on  the  top  of  two  of  the  pillars,  and 
the  prime  conductor  and  rubber  are  supported  by  the  other 
two.  The  crank  is  insulated;  the  conductors  are  all  pol- 
ished lengthwise,  or  telescope  finish,  and  there  is  no  differ- 
ence in  the  finish  of  the  several  sizes. 

No.  62.  Plate  Electrical  Machines,  of  improved  construc- 
tion, perfectly  insulated,  with  glass  shaft  and  brass  conduc- 
tor, of  superior  finish.  Diameter  of  plate  from  20  to  36 
inches.  Price,  $45  to  $150. 

No.  63.  Plate  Machine,  Brass  Mounted,  with  Glass 
Pillars,  on  Mahogany  Base,  Insulated  Crank,  and  Brass 
Conductor.  Diameter  of  plate,  16  inches.  Price,  $25.00. 

No.  64.  Plate  Machine,  same  style,  size  18  in.  $30.00. 

No.  65.  “ “ “ “ “ 20  « $40.00. 

No.  66.  “ “ “ “ “ 22  “ $50.00. 

No.  67.  “ “ “ “ “ 24  “ $60.00. 

No.  68.  Plate  Machine,  Brass  Mounted,  with  Positive 
and  Negative  Ball  Conductors,  and  additional  Brass  Prime 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS. 


33 


Conductor  on  separate  stand.  Diameter  of  plate,  24  in.* 
Price,  $80.00. 

No.  69.  Leyden  Jar  to  receive  shock  from. 

No.  70.  Small  Stool,  with  glass  legs. 

No.  71.  Discharger  to  draw  sparks  from  the  body  when 
charged  on  the  stool. 

* In  the  various  sizes  of  machines,  great  care  has  been  taken  to  have 
the  mounting  of  proportionate  strength ; the  sizes  of  the  glass  pillars, 
rubbers,  and  prime  conductors  increased  to  correspond  with  the  size  of 
plate,  and  to  produce  the  greatest  power.  The  conductors  are  polished 
lengthwise,  as  in  the  best  Paris  instruments. 


MISCELLANEOUS. 

Sulphate  of  Copper,  per  pound,  15  cents. 

Mercury,  “ 70  cents. 

Sulphuric  Acid,  “ 

Nitric  Acid,  “ 

Silk  Conducting  Wires,  per  pair,  37  cents. 

Cotton  “ “ “ 25  cents. 

India  Rubber  “ “ “ $1.50. 

Golding  Bird’s  Electro-Moxa  plates,  75  cents. 

Insulated  Conducting  Wires  of  every  description. 

Zincs  for  various  kinds  of  batteries. 

Connecting  Cups  of  various  kinds. 

Platinum  Wire  and  Foil. 

Porous  Cells. 

Amalgamating  Brushes. 

Galvanic  Soles. 

Dr.  Garret’s  Spine  Directors. 

Galvanic  Tubs  for  Foot  Baths. 

Batteries  and  Apparatus  for  Electro-Chemical  Baths. 
Improved  Instruments  and  Batteries  for  Dentists’  use. 
Price,  $12.00. 


34 


hall’s  catalogue. 


Dr.  W.  F.  Channing’s  Work  on  Medical  Electricity,  fifth 
edition,  enlarged,  with  seventy  original  illustrations.  $0.7*5. 
Golding  Bird’s  Lectures  on  Medical  Electricity.  $1.00. 
Hand-Book  of  Anatomy,  with  Charts.  $5.00. 

Davis’s  Manual  of  Magnetism.  $1.00. 

Garatt’s  Medical  Application  of  Electricity.  $4.00. 

All  works  on  Magnetism  and  Electricity  furnished. 
English,  French,  and  German  Scientific  Works  and 
Instruments,  imported  to  order. 


LIST  OF  PREMIUMS 

Received  by  this  establishment  since  its  commencement 
in  1836. 

From  the  Massachusetts  Exhibition  and  Fair  1837  for 
the  Best  Apparatus,  Diploma  and  Silver  Medal 

“ “ “ Diploma  and  Gold  “ 1839 

“ “ “ Diploma  and  Silver  “ 1853 

“ “ u Diploma  and  Gold  “ 1856 

From  the  Middlesex  Mechanics’  Association,  Diploma,  1851. 


I5P  Persons  ordering  Instruments  will  please  state  the  No.  as 
marked  in  the  Catalogue.  They  will  be  carefully  packed  so  they 
can  be  sent  to  any  part  of  the  world  without  breakage. 

N.  B.  Every  Instrument  is  warranted  to  be  as  represented. 


OF  ELECTRO-MEDICAL  INSTRUMENTS. 


35 


INDEX. 

No.  1.  Single  Coil,  in  black  walnut  box 20.00 

No.  2.  Double  Coil  Graduated  Battery 25.00 

No.  3.  Silver  Plated  Instrument,  single  coil 25.00 

No.  4.  Double  Coil,  silver  plated 30.00 

No.  5.  Dr.  Page’s  Portable  Instruments 12.00 

No.  6.  Family  Instruments 10.00 

No.  7.  Mounted  on  Rosewood  Base 8,  10,  12.00 

No.  8.  Small  Coil,  in  box 8.00 

No.  9.  Compound  Electrotome 20.00 

No.  10.  Horizontal  Compound  Electrotome 20.00 

No.  11.  Coil  in  box,  with  Constant  Battery 14.00 

Nos.  12,  13,  and  14.  Instruments  used  in  the  application  to 

Teeth 12.00 

No.  15.  Hall’s  Improved  Magnetic  Machine 10.00 

No.  16.  Large  size  Magnetic  Machine 50.00 

No.  17.  Medium  size  Magneto-Electric  Machine 35.00 

No.  18.  Magneto-Electric  Machine,  without  box 25.00 

No.  19.  Magneto-Electric  Machine,  with  Single  Magnet 30.00 

No.  20.  Largest  size,  with  clockwork 100.00 

No.  21.  Grove’s  Battery,  in  box 24.00 

No.  22.  Smee’s  Battery,  in  box 24.00 

No.  23.  Hall’s  Improved  Constant  Battery,  per  cup 1.25 

No.  24.  Dr.  Channing’s  Manipulator,  per  100  cups 50.00 

“ “ “ 50  “ 40.00 

“ “ “ 30  “ 30.00 

“ " “ 15  “ 20.00 

“ “ “ 10  “ 15.00 

No.  25.  Electro-Surgical  Loop 8.00 

No.  26.  Director  for  Destroying  the  Nerves  of  Teeth 3.00 

No.  27.  Electro-Surgical  Lancet 8.09 

No.  28.  Small  Sulphate  Copper  Battery 2.90 

No.  30.  Medium  Size  Sulphate  Copper  Battery 5.00 

No.  31.  Daniels’s  Protected  Battery 2.00 

No.  32.  “ • “ “ large  size 4.09 

No.  33.  One  Quart  Battery 2.50 

Two  “ “ 

No.  34.  German  Silver  Directors  for  the  Hand,  per  pair 2.00 

No.  35.  “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ 1 •>•> 

No.  36.  Silver  Plated  Surface  Handle, “ <c i..j 


86 


hall's  catalogue. 


No.  37. 
No.  38. 
No.  39. 
No.  40. 
No.  41. 
No.  42. 
No.  43. 
No.  44. 
No.  45. 
No.  46. 
No.  47. 
No.  48. 
No.  49. 


No.  50. 
No.  51. 
No.  52, 
No.  53. 
No.  54. 
No.  55. 


No.  56. 
No.  57. 
No.  58. 
No.  59. 


No.  60. 
No.  61. 


No.  62. 
No.  63. 
No.  64. 
No.  65. 
No.  66. 
No.  67. 
No.  68. 
No.  69. 
No.  70. 
No.  71. 


Sponge  Director, «<  « 

Silver  Plated  Ear  Directors,  each 

“ “ Rectum  **  “ 

“ “ Tongue  “ “ 

“ “ Scalp  “ “ 

Flat  Sponge  Handle 

Womb  Director 

“ “ glass mm 

Vagina  Director,  silver  plated 1.25, 

Dr.  Channing’s  Eye  Glass 

Metallic  Slippers,  per  pair 

Hard  Rubber  Sponge  Cup 

Universal  Handle 

In  Box 

Tie  Connecting  Cups 

Screw  “ “ 

Screw  Cups 

Galvanometers 10,  15, 

Vertical  Galvanometer,  for  office  use, 

Hall’s  Patent  Constant  Battery,  for  Extracting  Teeth 

without  Pain,  for  Dentists’  use,  complete  in  box, 

The  'Forceps, 

Hall’s  Improved  Footboard, 

German  Silver  Handles,  

Hall’s  Electropathic  Instrument  and  Battery  combined, 
with  Handles  and  Hall’s  Improved  Flexible  Cords,.. 

Manner  of  applying  Electricity  to  the  Footboard, 

Brass-Mounted  Plate  Machines  for  the  production  of 

Statical  Electricity, 

Plate  Electrical  Machines,.' 40.00  to 


1.50 

.75 

.75 

.75 

1.25 

1.25 

1.25 

1.25 

1.50 

.75 

1.25 

.75 

5.00 

6.00 

.25 

.17 

.17 

35.00 

15.00 

12.00 


Leyden  Jar  Discharger,. 

Small  Stool, 

Discharger, 


Positive  and  Negative,. 


150.00 

25.00 

30.00 
'40.00 

50.00 
60.00 
80.00 


Every  description  of  Magnetic  and  Galvanic  Instruments  manufactured 
to  order,  for  professors,  physicians,  teachers,  experimenters,  and  manu- 
facturers. Illustrated  catalogue  of  Electro-Medical  Instruments,  Philo- 
sophical Instruments,  and  Telegraphic  Instruments. 


T-  H _A_  Xj  Xj 


(SUCCESSOR  TO  DANIEL  DAVIS,  JR.) 

Has  Removed  to  13  Bromfield  Street,  Boston, 

WHERE  MAT  CONSTANTLY  BE  FOUND  ALL  KINDS  OF 

MAGNETIC  AND  TELEGRAPHIC  APPARATUS, 

AND 

MATERIALS  FOR  TELEGRAPH  LINES, 

Platina  Foil  and  Wire,  Galvanic  Batteries,  Insulated  Wire, 

AND  ALL  APPARATUS  FOR  THE  VARIOUS  MEDICAL  APPLIANCES 
OF  ELECTRICITY  AND  GALVANISM. 

COPPER  WIRE  INSULATED  WITH  BONE  RUBBER  AND  GUTTA  PERCDA. 


A Gold  Medal  and  Diploma  were  awarded  to  Palmer  & Hall  for 
their  Improvements  on  Telegraph  and  Magnetic  Instruments,  at  the 
last  Mechanics’  Fair  in  Boston,  1856. 

Davis’s  Manual  of  Magnetism,  Channing’s  Medical  Electricity  and 
Telegraph  Book,  are  published  and  for  sale  by  them. 


BATTERIES  AND  APPARATUS  FOR  THE 

BLBGYRO-GHBMlGAh  BATES, 

Furnished  at  the  shortest  notice  and  at  the  lowest  prices. 

ALL  ORDERS  PROMPTLY  ATTENDED  TO,  EITHER  BY  MAIL  OR  OTHERWISE, 


HALL’S 

IMPROVED 

Cflmjjouni)  ||tagnctic  Instrument, 

PRODUCING  A CONSTANT  CURRENT, 

FOR  RHEUMATIC  AND  NERVOUS  DISEASES. 

AN  APPLICATION  FOR  A PATENT  HAS  BEEN  MADE. 


In  offering  this  Instrument  to  the  public  w q would  call  their  atten- 
tion to  the  following  advantages  over  all  others  now  in  use : 

This  Instrument  is  arranged  with  a Pole  Changer,  so  that  you  can 
determine  which  is  the  positive  or  negative  pole,  (the  negative  pole 
being  the  strongest,)  which  is  very  essential  to  know  in  applying  it  for 
diseases.  The  Coils  revolve  without  belt  or  band,  so  that  it  cannot 
get  out  of  order.  Having  a Magnet  at  each  end  of  the  Coils,  we  get 
a very  powerful  current,  which  can  be  controlled  by  the  U armature. 
Shocks  can  be  obtained  by  turning  the  crank  either  way.  The 
changing  of  the  positive  or  negative  pole  in  the  conductors,  depends 
upon  the  direction  in  which  the  crank  is  turned.  This  Instrument  is 
thoroughly  made,  and  warranted  to  keep  in  order  for  years,  if  care- 
fully used. 

r)iREOTiO]srs. 

Connect  the  Conducting  Wires  with  the  Sockets  at  the  end  of  the  Box  ; 
screw  the  Crank  on  the  Wheel-shaft  and  turn  slowV,  as  the  current  depends 
upon  the  velocity  with  which  the  Coils  revolve  ; the  greater  the  speed,  the 
more  powerful  the  shocks  will  be  received.  By  putting  a piece  of  wet  sponge 
in  the  ends  of  the  Conductors,  the  shock  will  be  more  pleasant,  as  the 
sponge  spreads  upon  a larger  surface  of  the  skin,  and  obviates  that  pricking 
sensation  which  is  so  unpleasant.  In  applying  it,  hold  the  Conductor  in  one 
hand,  and  apply  the  other  to  the  part  affected. 

|y  To  produce  a constant  current , pull  the  lever  at  the  end  of  the  box, 

Manufactured  and  Sold,  Wholesale  and  Retail,  by 

THOMAS  HALL,  13  Bromfield  Street, 

BOSTON,  MASS. 

Magnetic  and  Galvanic  Apparatus  made  to  order,  and  constantly  on  hand. 
Also,  Conductors  of  every  description.  Dr.  Channing’s  Medical  Electricity, 
published  by  Thomas  Hall  ; price  75  cents.  Davis’s  Manual  of  Mag- 
netism, $1.25. 


ILLUSTRATED  CATALOGUE 


UECTRO -HEDIUL  IMHTS. 


BOSTON,  MASS. 

No.  13  BKOMFIE1D  STREET. 
1860. 


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